Historia Vegetabilium Sacra: OR, A Scripture HERBAL; WHEREIN All the Trees, Shrubs, Herbs, Plants, Flowers, Fruits, etc. Mentioned in the Holy Bible, are in an Alphabetical Order, Rationally Discoursed of: SHOWING, Their Names, Kind's, Qualities, various Uses, Natural Principles, Countries, Manner of Propagation, etc. Also their Medicinal Preparations, Virtues and Dose, Gallenically and Chemically Handled and Performed according to the newest Doctrines of Philosophy, Herbarism, and Physic. Absolutely necessary for all Ministers and other Persons, to understand the Holy Scriptures, and to cure all Diseases. The like never attempted . By W. WESTMACOT, Med. Prof. LONDON: Printed for john Salusbury, at the Rising Sun in Cornhill. 1695. Liber Coll. Omnanim. Fid●l. defunct. in Oxon. blazon or coat of arms AN ADDRESS TO THE Learned and Reverend CLERGY, Of what Opinion or Persuasion soever: Also a Word to Physical and Theological TYRO's. Reverend Fathers, Pastors, and Learned Sirs, IT is observable, That Readers in the generality do not study (especially in reference to Contemporaries) what may benefit themselves, but blemish the present Author's Repute: Therefore I shall be censured, I question not, by some, for a Solecism of the first Magnitude, that I (who am but a mean Star in comparison of those other splendid Planitary Orbs in the Esculapian Firmament,) should presume to accost such a Grand Body of (Spiritual) Physicians, whose Function is the Queen, and all other Arts and Sciences its Handmaids. But considering that Books seem by Custom (that great Gubernatrix in these modish days) to challenge a Dedication, and that they should be in some measure adapted, and congruent to the Professions, and Intrinsic Worths of the Persons they are directed to; I (without much Hesitation) quickly resolved to offer this Sacred History of Vegetables, to your mature and sublime Understandings, being emboldened thereunto, by considering, that as another Persons Ability (whose Name is mounted on the Wings of Fame) might have gained Applause, so perhaps my Weakness may deserve an Excuse. The Subject Matter of it is gathered out of the Best of Books, which is the Foundation of your Province, the Portraiture of it is altogether new; The Usefulness of it to you, I shall not stand to declare, but leave it to your own Experience and Judgement, but only shall say, it may be very serviceable and advantageous to younger Students in their orderly and methodical reading of the Holy Bible, as a Lexicon Vegetable, etc. But that which is one great End of the Publication of this Scripture Herbal, and the main scope of this Address, is the Desire, Request, and Hopes I have, that some one or more, among such a Learned and Pious Tribe will illustrate and improve this Phytological Tract, in the Subject of your own Province, either by explaining the the Spiritual Sense of the Text to which any Vegetable relates, or Spiritualising the Virtues and Uses of each of them, by a Theological Commentary, Meditations, or practical Application, etc. or in any such way or manner, (for herein is subject and room enough) as shall be the Result of your better Judgements, and as the great Sanctifier of All things, shall dispose your Hearts to such Sacred Emanations. Now if the Grand Physician, should so far incline, illuminate, and direct any Divine Genius to the Performance of such a Pious Improvement; It would tender this Herbal far more useful and acceptable, to every common Reader, and pious Soul, containing than not only Advice and Medicines appropriated to the Body, but also Spiritual Advice and Physic for the Soul: Here the Divine and Physician, would both convenire in uno tertio, both their Aims are Curing, the first heals Corpus per Animam, the last Animam per Corpus. And 'tis a felicity to a Patient (whether sick in Soul or Body) to meet with Persons, both of much Science and Conscience in their respective Professions. As he would discover himself to be, that should be the Author of such a pious Work, provided he be Orthodox in the same: He would be a great Instrument of doing good in his Generation, by alluring and quickening Christians to Scripture study, and advancing them in Scripture-Understanding, Holiness and Practice of Christianity, and therein answer the Ends of his Sacred Function So, the Advancement of God's Glory, and the Salvation of Souls. Now having shot my Bolt, and though weakly and foolishly enough, I confess, yet will it not anticipate a crowd of Zoilists, made up of all Parties, from whom I expect carping Censures, the common fate to all Books, but the sharpest detracting Blasts, will emanate, (as I guests) from the Medical Province, pufled out by some Selfconceited Tyroes, that st●ut about and swell, inani Doctorum Titulo, (as the Renowned Silvius de le Boe complains) Traducing and Calumniating all Authors and Practitioners, that are not so academically plumed, when they themselves are more Verbal, than sensitive Artists: It is not the ascertaining or starting some groundless insignificant Eloquent Notions, or new lettered Hypothesis in the Theory, nor a Diploma of M. D. painted as a reward, can make a Man the true Servant of Nature, Morbi non Eloquentiae, typ. Lex. sed remediis curantur, saith Celsus. And the six Necessaria of Hypocrat●s, ●re previously required to constitute a true Practical Artist, among which the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 is not the lest, and Education from a Child, that is, working and studying under a Practiser; a sensible canvasing the Elements and Principles of the Materia Medica, by Pharmaco Chemical Inspection, (before over much Philosophical Contemplation) and than a sedulous Observation (at the Elbow of an Experienced daily Practiser) of matter of Fact in Diseases, and of the Methodical Application of Remedies, according to the Indicantia, etc. These are the Manuductory Things, that Constitute an Expert and Real Artist, which agrees with Aristotle, Nihil in intellectu quód non priús in sensu. I Would not here be thought to declaim against Academical Studies, I have Reason to revere those impregnating Fountains, and too highly Honour many of the Faculty, thence dignified; I only aim at the Genteel Momi's, for whose Fine▪ bred Education a Laboratory is too smutty, and the Materia Medica will daub their Fingers. But I advice, he that would be a Conscientious and▪ Real Artist to Remark what I have hinted at, and he'll never have any reason to repent, especially, when he comes to Practice, if he gins his Cures as Mesue, in nomine Dei, and imitate Lelius a fonte Eugibinus, that in all his Consultations, concluded with Prayer for Success: And remembering that of Crato fuge Avaritiam (& intemperantiam) atque sine Invocatione Dei nil facias, God's Blessing being the primum Mobile of all Success; For 'tis he only that commands Health, the Physician is but Manus Dei. He that for a Sublime Wit, and all the Ornaments of Learning, is Nature's Pride, without Religion, is but a Learned Dunce; Great Parts, without great Piety, will procure one day the greater Punishment: Therefore he is the most skilful Physician, (for a Soul and Body) that by sincere Diognosticks, discerneth the Plague of his own Heart, and studies to heal his depraved Nature, by the renovating Balsam of the Blood of Jesus, who 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Sano. hath that Name (though chief in a Spiritual Sense) from his Healing Nature and Property. But hold Pen, Ne suitor ultra crepidam, yet, why? May not a Physician advice as abovesaid, and inspect the Sacred History of Vegetables: We found many Divines, (as Mar silius Ficinus was semel & simul) a Priest and Physician at once, some of them being instigated by their unsatiable Avarice, do often here in the Country, ex Officio, not ex Charitate, practice, and like Monopolising Ambodexters, get Money with both Hands, contrary to the Precepts of Holy Writ, but verbum sat. To conclude, quid feci, feci, I expect envious Detractions, for veritas odium parit; I will not value the invective Sarcasms of Carping Sciolists, but shall have just cause to rejoice, if any young Student, Theologically or Physically inclined, may in the course of their Studies, reap in a little time what cost me many Months, and if this Design take, and be acceptable, expect the Sacred History of Minerals, etc. Now that the Faults of this Botanical Essay, may redound to myself, the Profit to others, and the Glory to God, is the aim and desire of, Learned Sirs, Your most Humble Servant, W. W. An Introductory PREFACE TO THE READER: Of what Religion, Profession, or Calling soever, that useth to Read the Holy BIBLE. Christian Reader, IT was the well-designed Wish of jacobus Acontus, a most Excellent Man, [that not any thing should be Written and Published, unloss it were something New, which should both be of the Author's own Observation, and might make for the Glory of God, and the Edification of the Church, etc. That so nothing might be done, which was already done, but what was yet to be done,] how far, Reader, this Scripture Herbal is agreeable, and doth answer to this Learned Man's Option, will, upon thy perusal of it, sensibly appear unto thee; for never any yet writ, as I could hear of, in a peculiar Tract, The Sacred History of Vegetables, or Plants, which are mentioned by their proper Names, in the Sacred Scriptures: So that I may say without Arrogancy, 'tis a new Thing in its Design, which will tend, I hope, to the Glory of God, and the Edification of the Church. Herbs and Trees are as old as the Third Day, springing than by virtue of the Almighty's Herbascat Terra, Gen. 1. v. 11. Let the Earth bring forth, which words are yet in force, as an uncovered or new digged Earth, without Sowing or Setting any Seeds or Roots will prove unto you. Adam was the first Botanist we read of, his first Work was the Art of Simpling in the Garden of Eden, which some Expositors conceive to be the whole World, which is most absurd, for we read Adam was driven out of Eden, and it must than follow out of the World; But the soundest Judgements, Skilled in Divinity and Geography, place it between the Rivers Tigris and Euphrates, in the delectable and fruitful Plains of Chaldea, a Plantation fit for his Inspired Understanding: that Adam had knowledge in Simples, may be more strenuously inferred from the Text, than that he was a Chemist, and did dive into the Mineral Kingdom, as some fond and high flown Chemists would feign have it believed, thereby to advance the Honour and Antiquity of Alchemy. But the first Botanical Author, that the Scriptures testify of, is the famous Herbarist King Solomon, who writ copious Herbals, even from the stately Cedar, to the common Herb Hyssop; we have no reason to conjecture, that he employed his Thoughts on Minerals, but that he made a strict Disquisition into the Nature and Virtues of all Simples, is unquestionable; And lest the Works of the Wisest of Men should have fallen into Profane Hands, and have been too much adored and abused by Heathens, Charmers and Magicians, to some impious and nefarious Ends, or for greater Reasons than we can fathom, or aught to dispute. Alwise Providence, which disposeth of all Things for the best, snatched his Books away, by causing good King Hezekiah (as some think) to burn them; And the loss of them, which way soever it came to pass, must needs 'cause every Sober Physician, (that is affected at the good or ill Success of Remedies, and conscientiously tender of his Patient's Health) deeply to lament for Books of such an incomparable Value, must have conduced far more to the Health and Welfare of Mankind, than the Works of all other famous Men besides: But the ways of Providence are inscrutable, and I shall only hence observe. that the Botanical Studies of this inspired and wisest Prince, concerning the same Plants, which are to us Physic. Food and Raiment, is an Argument to me, that Vegetables are more naturally and properly the Subject of Medicaments than Minerals. Now should I give an Account, how gradually the knowledge of Plants hath been advanced, and how in all Ages one or more Learned Men have successively laboured in the same, I should exceed the bounds of a Preface; some have given us their Description and Figure, others have adjusted their Names, Kind's, Order and Kindred; more have informed us of their Nature and Virtues, and some of late have denoted their Alimental and Mechanical Uses, and a few have Anatomically inspected their Texture and inward Structure, and demonstrated the visible Constitutions and Uses of their several parts, together with their Odours, Tastes, etc. deducing from thence their Qualities, Operations and Virtues. As for the ensuing Tract it contains variety of Matter, and differs much from our common Herbals, being chief composed and done, according to the late Doctrines of Phytology or Herbarism, grounded upon the Information of our Senses, and confirmed by a Chemical Analysis of Principles and Experiment: Whereas in our common Herbals, the Virtues of most Plants are with much uncertainty, and too promiscuously ascribed to them; so that as one observes, if you turn over a Herbal, you shall found almost every Herb to be good for every Disease: Now for thy further Satisfaction, I will first declare the Occasion of this Work; Secondly, Give you an Explication of the Method used herein; and Thirdly, The Ends and usefulness hereof. As to the First, it is the product of Paternal Obedience: A Father, who was not only a great Scholar, but a great Divine, commanding it, with this Saying of Cassiodorus, [The Scripture is an Heavenly School, wherein we may Learn whatsoever we are either to Learn, or to be ignorant of,] The Prerogative of Scripture before Human Writings, consists in its breadth and depth, being an inexhaustible Fountain, affording always either a Rule, or some Say or Examples, relating to whatsoever Subject we are to treat upon; In this Vegetable Subject, 'tis more copious than at the first View I took it to be, making mention of no lesle than Seventy and odd Trees, Shrubs and Herbs, many whereof are Foreign to us, and peculiar to those Countries, where the Sacred Scriptures were Penned: The Inclinations of my lean Genius, together with the Reasons and Encouragements of some Divines, (particularly the eminently Learned and Reverend I B. in the County of Salop) caused me after some time, to put the abovesaid Command to the Trial; And the Embryo of it being conceived upon their further View and Approbation, 'tis grown up into the following Form. And that thou mayst the better comprehend and understand its Methodical Shapes and Orders; Thou wilt found, Reader, in the first place, each Plant in its Alphabetical Order, and in what Books, Chapters and Verses of the Holy Bible they are mentioned in. Secondly. N. K. D. P.] Signifieth unto thee, their Names, Kind's, Description and Places; bear you have the true and synonimous Names, both Latin and English adjusted; The Differences of the Plants of the same Family, specified; The Parts and Products, as Fruits, Liquors, Excrescences, etc. observed; The Art of Raising them by Seeds, Slips, etc. and the Countries and Places where they most delight in, are lastly denoted. Thirdly, Virtues and Uses.] You have next in Order, grounded upon the Testimony of our Senses, as aforesaid; And to tender it acceptable and useful to the meanest, as well as to the most accurate Philosophical Reader; I have inserted also the Aristotelian Qualities of every Plant, whether Hot, Cold, Moist, or Dry, to which and occult Qualities, all the Effects and Operations of Herbs, accumulated and set down in our common Herbals are attributed, and to please others, have not forgot to place each Plant under that Planet, which is said to have Influence and Dominion over i●: In a Word, the Medicinal Virtues ascribed to each Vegetable, are not more than such as may be rationally deduced from the Essential and active Principles of the Plants, as Salts, Spirits, Oils, Acids, Bitters, Sweets, etc. or what the great Philosophers, and most Authentic Practical Physicians of this Learned Age, both Galenists and Chemists, have allowed they have, or affirmed of them in their Works; or lastly, They are such as I have inserted of my own Knowledge, arising from a strict Disquistion of the Principles, joined and confirmed with a sedulous Experience of Twenty Years Practice and upwards: Moreover, besides Medicinal, you have many other Uses observed, that some of the Plants are good for, or may be put unto, relating to Planters, Gardeners, Mechanics, Husbandmen, etc. Also I have not forgot to Point out their noxious Qualities and their Cures; All which are adorned and conformed with Historical Observations of their Propagation, Cultivation, Alimental and MechanicalVses, and unusual Accidents, etc. of them, so that every Reader may ●ind some what herein, relating to his own Calling, Profit or Pleasure. Fourthly, In the Shops.] Is the last Paragraph, containing under it the Names of all the Preparations (Sc. Simple and Compound Medicines) of each Plant now kept for Use in the Apothecary's Shops, and prepared according to the London Dispensatory, set out by the Learned and Honourable College of Physicians, and you have not only their Names, but also something of the Nature and usefulness of the most of them; Notifying also some other Medicines out of other Dispensatories, and best Practical Authors, amongst which are divulged some Arcana's or Nostrums (as they are termed) of some Eminent Practitioners and Learned Doctors of this present Age, which I have picked up, having had such Means and Opportunities for the same, as are not fit here to declare: And this I have done in gratium Tyronum, and for the Legitimate Sons of Art, whether in Physic, Pharmacy, or Chirurgery, who will found several Things in this Tract, relating to their respective Professions, which are not Vulgar, but Acceptable; and as for others, that think they know and can do better, I wish they would oblige us all, rather than Censure and sinned Faults in others. Lastly, I come to the End and Usefulness (which is the Summum bonum) of this Theological Herbal, and how Serviceable and Advantageous to Christians it will be. All those Persons whatsoever, that seriously peruse the Holy Bible, will be sensible of for to Read, and not Understand, Advantageth not: In the Sacred Scriptures you meet with Calamus, Juniper, Cypress, Olive, Palm, with many other Outlandish and homebred Plants, which perhaps you know not any thing of, nor for what Reasons the Holy-Ghost, by the Inspired Penmen of the Bible, doth mention them in several places. Now Reader. Keep this Expounding Herbal in thy House, and fly to it as a faithful Interpreter, which will inform thy Mind, and add to thy Understanding; Here thou mayst sinned that the Sacred Word of God, yields not only Spiritual Physic, for the Cure and Salvation of thy Soul, but also Medecines and Sustenance for the Cure and Preservation of thy frail Body; Food and Raiment, and many other things relating to some good end or other, in the way of thy Calling, is here pointed out unto thee; and for thy Health thou wilt found here that the All-Comprehending Word doth yield thee Medicines easily prepared, opposing all Diseases: And all this directed by the great El-shaddai, (Gen. 17. 1.) The All-sufficient Helper, who is also pleased to style himself Jehovah Rophe the Lord the Physician, (Exod. 15. 26.) And here let me digress a little from my Province, and give thee three Rules as a Divine, as many of them do more often, Physic: First Read the Scripture in an orderly and methodical Way. Secondly, read it with a purpose to practise what you Read. Thirdly, Read it with Prayer, That God would open thy Eyes to Understand the wondrous Things contained in the same. There are many Souls, whose delight may be to repair often to this Sanctuary of Scriptures, (as St. Austin styles them) but cannot discern any thing there of the Lord or De Civ. Dei Lib. 20. Cap. 32. prope finem. of his Glory, they frequently Read, (but like the Ethiopian Eunuch) Understand not, or not to purpose what they Read. To Conclude, if this Task, which to eat the Baits of Idleness, and to improve the small Talon, the Almighty Instructor hath entrusted me with, I first entered upon, and now by Divine Assistance have finished, may be any ways assistant and helpful to any Christian in scripture Understanding, or to any other good Purposes or Designs; I than have my Aim and Desire, and it will than Encourage me to give the World a Second Part, to wit, The Sacred History of Minerals; and not regarding the censorious Invectives of Ill-humoured Men, perhaps I may (Deo juvante) proceed to a Third Sc. Historia Animalium Sacra, in which I found Wolfangius hath done many things very well already. But that Reader which would mightily advance this Work, for thy general Good and Benefit, and 'cause me farther to inspect the Mineral Kingdom, is the Illustration and Pious Improvement hereof, by the Hand of some Pious minded Clergyman, as I have Requested in the preceding Address: For the Sacred Scripture containeth Matter and Words enough for thee; All others, and myself, to expiate our Thoughts to a good End upon, it being (as one Emphatically speaketh) the Book of Life, Whose Original is Eternal, whose Essence is Incorporeal, whose Knowledge is Life, Hug. de Arc. Noe. whose Writing is Indelible, whose Inspect is Desirable, whose Doctrine is Easy, whose Knowledge is Sweet, whose Depth is Unsearchable, whose Words are Innumerable, and only One Word, (ALL) which All, that it may be unto the studious Reader, is the the sincere desire of W. W. A CATALOGUE of all the Trees, Plants, Shrubs, Herbs and Fruits, mentioned in the Holy BIBLE. ALgum Trees. Almug-Trees. Almond-Tree. Anise. Appletree. Ash-Tree. Barley. Bay Tree. Beans. Box. Brambles. Briars. Bulrushes. Calamus. Cane. Cassia. Cedar. Chesnut. Cockle. Coriander. Cucumber. Cummin. Cinnamon. Cypress. Elms. Figs. Fir. Fitches. Flags. Flax. Garlic. Gophir-wood. Gourds. Grapes. Grass. Hasel Tree. Hemlock. Hyssop. Juniper. Leeks. Lentils. Lign Aloes. Lilies. Mallows. Mandrakes. Melons. Mints. Mulberry Tree. Mustard. Myrtle. Nettles. Nuts. Oak. Olive. Onion. Oyl-Tree. Palm. Pine. Pomegranate. Poplars. Pulse. Raisins. Reeds. Rose. Rue. Rush. Rye. Saffron. Shittah-Tree, or Shittim-Wood. Spicknard. Sycomore. Tares. Teyl-Tree. Thistles. Thorns. Tree of Life. Vine. Wheat. Willow. Wormwood. Historia Vegetabilium Sacra, OR A SCRIPTURE-HERBAL. Algum Trees. 2 CHron. 2. 8. and 9, 10, 11. Ligna Thyina; Thya. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Sacrifico, quia Sacraficiis apta. It is rarely mentioned by our late Botanists; The Ancients differ about it, and so do Expositors, Theo●hrasus and Pliny will have it to be the Tree of Life, I do not mean that in Gen. 3. 22.) of which, see orward. Purchas saith Dr. Dee writ a Tract almost solely of these Trees, wherein he impanels a Jury of 12 Sorts, viz. Fir, Box, Cedar, Cypress, E●ony, Ash, Juniper, Larch, Olive, Pine, Oak, and Sandal Trees; To see which would prove to be the Algum or Almugin. And gives it Pine, or Fir, as Josephus hath, who from some old Record, Building ●r Fragment, possible might assure himself; Some ●udge it Cedar, because Algum grows in Lebanon; but whether Pine, as some assert, or the choicest Cedar, I leave to the disquisition of the Learned Divines. Only it was most precious, odoriferous ●nd beautiful, fit to refract Sounds, and the most durable Wood for Theophrassus attributeth great Honour to the Thy● of immortally Materiae, for the Pillars, Roofs and Rafters of old Temples, as Soloman's was, Harps, Psalteries, and his Royal Palace, were made and built of the never-rotting-Timber thereof. Almond Tree. ALmond. Gen. 43. 11. Exod. 25. 33, 34, and 37. 19, 20. Num. 17 8. Eccles. 12. 5. Jer. 1. 11. N. K. D. P. Amigdalus, Amigdal●, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, the Almond Tree is in Leaves and Hours like the Peach-Tree, but it excels it in height, magnitude, and Age; the Fruit is also like Peach, but only the Nut or Stone is included in a thin Cotton, and soft Cutis (being also longer and smother, which contains the Kernel or Almond; in Taste bitter or sweet, which denominates two Trees, the Roots whereof grow deep: Amigdalae Peruvianae, or Almonds of Peru, are of the Taste of common Almonds. Hot Countries are the Natural places of the early Vegetation of these Trees: Quae prima inter Arbores evigilat, first awaking and germinating from their Hyemal repose, before all others; Flowering in January, and acelerating its Fruit to Maturity by March; but not till August here in England (if at all) where these Trees are slowly propogated in some curious Gardens. The bitter Almonds may be raised from our English Fruit serving for i●s own Kind, or to make Stocks for ●precots or Peaches: The daily use of Almonds, ●y the Apothecary. Confectioners, and Sadies, demonstrates, what vast quantities are annually transported hither by the Merchants. The largest and best Sweet-Almonds, by our Tradesmen, are vulgarly called Jordan Almonds; the smaller Sort, Valentia Almonds, from a Province so named in the hot Country of Spain; We have also Barbados Almonds, and other Sorts. Fine Mouthed Venus layeth Claim to the Sweet, and giveth Mars leave to take the Bitter. Virtues and Uses. The Sweet-Almonds are temperately hot and moist, do Nourish, Lenify, and are anodine. And therefore are commonly allowed by Physicians, to be eaten with a few Raisins, for a Supper, by their Gallican Patients. The Bitter-Almonds are hot and dry in the 2 Degree, attenuate, open, cleanse, and provoke Urine. In After-Pains, arising from the Sharpness of the Blood, Oil of Sweet-Almonds, drawn fresh without heat, is excellent; but our ignorant Midwives give seldom more than one Ounce, when certainly two, would do better; Also two Drams of the same Oil, beaten with a little Sugar-Candy, given to a new born Child, is excellent to cleanse it, and prevent Gripes. Almonds are also the Basis of many sorts of Emulsions, prescribed in Fevers, Pleurisies, Catarrhs, etc. according to Indications and Mind of the Physician: And every charitable Lady and Gentlewoman, knows how to prepare Almond-Milk, to nourish their poor and languishing Neighbours. The Oil of Bitter-Almonds, I have often prescribed (the best I found) in Nephritick cases, to the honest Countryman, who boggles at no ill-tasted Medicine,▪ when Life lies at stake; for the Truth is, they seldom crave help till than: Some say the swallowing of 5 or 6 bitter Almonds in a Morning fasting, prevents Drunkenness that day; but I judge if I should play the goodfellow, they would cheat my Head, and consequently my Feet also. The Dry-Almond-Cakes (after the Oil is expressed) a thing of small value, are used by some Barbers (and ordered by some Physicians as well as the Oil itself) in Sweet-waters, Fucy's, Sacculets and Beautifying-Medicines. A cheap Cosmetick-Ball, I have often used, framed of the dry Cakes, Oil of Tartar per deliquium, and a little Camphire, beaten up together in a Mortar to a Paste, Ball or Globulus, which hath cleansed and beautified the Face, far beyond the extolled Medicines of Mountebanks and Women. In the Shop●. The expressed Oil of Sweet, and of Bitter Almonds is constantly kept, but is apt to grow rancid and austere; therefore the Oil drawn fresh, without heat, is the best for Internal or External Uses. A few drops of Rose-water, may be added in the beating of the Almonds, to rarify the Oil, facilitate its Extraction, and add to its Odour; a Secret not known, or at lest not used by every Artist. In a Hoarseness, ℟ Oil of Sweet-Almonds, fresh drawn, Syrup of the Juice of Ground-Ivy aa ℥ ss, Sugar-Candy powdered, ℥ ss, shake them well together till they be well mixed, and look white, and lick it often with a Liquorace Stick: The Syrup of Hedg-Mustard will serve as well with the Oil, if not better. In Fits of the Gravel and Stone, after Clysters the next Potion is admirable. ℟ Ol. Amigd. dulcium recent. extract. vin. alh. a●. ℥ iss. Succ. Lemon. Syr. Hor. Pap. Dealt. a●. ʒuj Decoct. fol. Parietar. vel Rad. Dealt. ℥ iiij. Ms. f. haustus. Ol. Amigdalarum amarum, or Oil of bitter Almonds also, any condited Almonds, vulgarly called Almond Comfits, are generally kept in our Country Shops, the last being prepared by the Consectioners more to please the Palate than for any Medicine all use they are put to; the bitter Oil is good in pains of the Ears, and Cosmetical. Almug Trees. 1 KIngs 10, 11, 12. The same with Algum. Anise. Matth. 23. 23. NK. D. P. Anethum is put by Jun. & Tremel. for Anisum, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Anethum is the Herb Dill. Anise hath round and hollow Stalks, divided into small Branches at first, next the Ground, with somewhat broad round Leaves; but after some time indented Parsly-like Leaves, only smaller and whiter; than appear Spoky Rundles or Tufts of white Flowers, after Which, the Seeds sweet in Odour, do possess the Top. There is a larger sort described by Clusius. It naturally grows in Candia, Syria any other Transnearnie hot Countries, and is to be found in some few English Gardens. Virtues and Uses. Aniseeds are under Jupiter, hot and dry in the 2d. Degree, being accounted one of the 4 hot Seeds in the London Dispensatory, if fresh and not old, they attenuate, discuss, and have an aromatic Taste; so excellent against Wind, and Colds in the Breast. One Scruple of the fine Powder given to Newborn Infants in Pap, cleanseth their Bodies from Maternal Dregss, whence arise Gripes, Wind, etc. In the Swell of the Throat (vulgarly Almonds) and Palate, I use to order Figs, Liquorace▪ ●aisius and aniseeds, each a small proportion, to be boil in Water, for ordinary Drink, and it seldom fails me; a good Cataphasm of green Wormwood▪ and Hogs Grease beaten up together, being applied outwardly. In the Shops. The Power called Dianisum, Anise▪ Seed-Water, and Chemical Oil of Aniseeds. The common Anise-Seed-Water sold in our Country Shops▪ is the most fulsome and insalubrious of Strong-waters, being a mere adulterated, and sophisticated Hodgepodge▪ co●po●mded by the Wholesale Distillers, of other d●c●yed Dregss▪ Water's and Spirits, with a few ●●cid ●n● decayed Aniseeds, and good store of ●olossus or common Treacle to sweeten it; but if truly drawn, it expelleth Wind, and warms a cold Stomach bravely. Author▪ differ about the Distillation of the Oil of Aniseeds, and other like Seeds, some will have them digested before Distillation, and pretend they will yield the more Oil, the holy of the Seed bieng more opened: But they consider not, that these Seeds do abound with Volatile Salt, which is of a Median Nature; so that the Water cannot attract it to itself by the length of Digestion: 'Tis true Digestion preceding, the Water will be more spiritous and effic-cious; but it yields much more Oil, if the distillation be begun, immediately after the commixtion of the Seed and Water. The Use and Virtues of Chymmical Oil of Aniseeds are well known, being much more efficacious in all respects than any other Preparation of Aniseeds; it chief operates on the Breast and Lungs▪ and excellent in the Wind-Choliks▪ Let the plain Countryman, in a Consumptive Cough, and stoppage of the Lungs, take the following Electuary, much used by a popular Physician in Worcestershire. ℟ The Flour of Fen-greek Seed ℥ ss Liquorace-Powder ʒij common Molossus or Treacle ℥ iij Oil of Aniseeds 6 Drops, mix them, and lick it often, and esteem it (though a plain thing) an excellent cheap Medicine. Apple Tree. APples, Prov. 25. 11. Cant. 2. 3, 5, and 7, 8, and 8. 5. Joel. 1. 12. N. K. D. P. Malus, Roma, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Heb. Tappuach. Malus▪ or Malum with an Adjective, is a common Name to many Trees; as Malum Cotoneum a Quinor Malum Granatum a pomegranate, ac. But Appletrees are properly called Mali, whose Family or Kindred is so infinite, yet well known, though of such diversity, as I think it is harder, to number, and give a distinct▪ account of all Sorts of Apples, than 'tis of Grapes and Figs: The Exotic Apples are, Balsamina mirabilia, the Balm Apples: Rom●m Hierosolytanu●, Jerusalem Apples; Mal● in●ana, Mad Apples; Roma amoris, The Love Apple. Stramonium, or Tho● Apples, have been in England about 100 Years; the Fruit or Apples of this green succous Shrub, are round, or oval, coated and armed with many spicous Pricks; the included Seed is black like unto Tare-Seed. Malus Sylvestris is the Crabtree. Virtues and Uses The Foreign Apples, and Thorn Apples are all under Saturn, cold in the 3●d Degree. Thorn Apple is sown, fructifies and perisheth the same year, I have sowed it in March or April, gathered the thorny Apples at September, to p●serve Seed for the ensuing year; Nay, I have known it (in some ground) spring again from its fallen Seed. English Apples are either Acid, so cold and binding: Sweet, hotter and Laxative; or Subacid or Vinous▪ which are of a mixed Nature, and are the best Cider Apples: Cider once in the year is drawn without fire through so many Trees, as for many huge ●limbecks, in which 'tis prepared and brewed by- Divine Chemistry, there needs no Furnaces, nor digesting Balneums Matrasses, nor suffocating Smoke, to hasten our consuming Lungs▪ This Connatural Drink varies in its Taste▪ Body, Strength, as it is more or lesle mixed with Water, or drawn from various commixed Apples▪ or any other ways sophisticated: for the Cyder-Sellers have Tricks. In Devonshire there is in esteem a wholesome, stout Mulberry Cydor, they mix a black, full-ripe Mulberry, in the Grinding or Pressing with a full bodied Cider, having a respect to the quantity commixed, for the better Tincture and Relish. We say the Spaniard is slow at every thing, but they may say the Englishman is more slow, at the best Improvements of our own Country, or else we might have Mulberry Cider, and Fruit enough in places, remote from the Cider Countries, where we pay sauce for sophisticated stuff. I am of opinion, that Elderberries, mixed with a sweet Cider Apple, would make a wholesome, well coloured Cider, proper in many Diseases. As for Mulberries▪ they are scarce and not improved; as wise King James the First, who first sent for them, did design; but in their stead, your Turnip Cider is of late years, cunningly imposed upon us for right Apple Cider, made by Fermentation, yet but a small and weak bodied Liquor, as I found it this last Summer in the West. It is generally granted if your Apples, be right Cider Fruit, so that it be full bodied and strong, and kept in large Vessels, the larger the better; it will hold good without decay some years: Sir Jo. Winter had a Vessel, contained 30, or at lest 28 Hogsheads hooped with Iron Plates. Cider is a kind Vehicle, and proper Menstrum for Medical Matters; the best Pepin Cider, duly ripened, and kindly fermented, is a peculiar Remedy for a Consumption. All strong and pleasant Cider, cleanseth and exciteth the Stomach, which if foul, (being the Kitchen of the Body) is the Mother of most Diseases. This English Wine strengtheneth Digestion, and infallibly frees the Kidneys and Bladder from breeding the Gravel and Stone: This is the Excellency of the best Red-Streak, voided of all Adulteration. B●●tle Cider is commonly more windy than healthful, being generally a great Cheat, especially in Country's remote from the Cider ones▪ In the Shops. The Altering Syrup; the Magistral Syeup, and the Purging Syrup of Apples; the Ointment called Pomatum. But I must not forget to recommend to all Apothecaries and Surgeons the keeping of the ungt. Stramonis, or Ointments of Thorn-Apples; for I do affirm from reiterated Experiments, that there is no Plant in the Vegetable Kingdom, doth sooner alloy Inflammations, and cure all Sanable Burn and Scaldings from what cause soever, as this doth. Those that know it, usually keep a Simple Cyntment only of the Juice and Hogsgrease decocted, for the first Application, till the Fire is fetched out, as they vulgar word it: And 'tis exceeding useful in all hot cutaneous Eruptions, Pustles, Erisepelas and Inflammations, particularly in the 〈◊〉 and Gou●. Also another Ointment, that doth digest, mundify and incarn is made of the contused Leaves, or Juice; and Oil Olive decocted to the consumption of the Juice, than strained, and a little Rozin, Turpentine and Wax, being added; which besides Ulcerated Burn, healeth fresh inflamed Wounds, and especially old Ulcers, upon the Glandulous Parts of the Penis, and else where. I found Dr. Bates used it, under the title of Ol. Pomosum. Ash. Isa. 44. 14. N. K. D. P. Ornus by Jun. & Tremel. vulgarly Fraxinus affrangendo quia fragilis. Ornus is the Wild Ash, which Pena and others make to be Sorbus Sylvestris, or the wild Service-Tree; 'tis called also Quicken-bean, or Quicken-Tree, having white twisted Flowers in May, and clusters of Read Berries towards Autumn, frequently seen in some part of our County of Stafford, in our thick Copses (and mountainous Groves) according to that of Virgil.— Saxosis Montibus Orni. Dr. Plott in his Survey to Staffordshire, found the Sorbus Pyriformis, which grows wild in the Moor-lands, tho' judged by some not to be of English growth; for L'Obelius, Mathiol● and Bauhin, place it in France, Italy, and Germany; But the first that is said to found it in England, was my old Friend, and most exact Botanist, Mr. Pitt, an Apothecary of Worcester, since dead, who sent the description of it to the Royal Society, which I shall set down for the encouragement of young Botanists; yet hoping that Mr. Newton a Botanist from London, whom I accdentally saw near Malverne Hills in Worcestershire, on the 26 of July 92. going to search what Plants he could found on those Mountains, in order to the completing a large Herbal, he was about) may found it, and give us a further account of it. Philosoph. Transact. Numb 131. It resembles (says Mr. Pitt) the Ornus or Quicken-Tree, only the Ornus bears the Flowers and Fruit at the end, this on the sides of the Branch, next the Sun, the Fruit hath a dark read blush, and is about the bigness of a small Jeneting Pear; in September of so harsh astringent taste, that it almost strangles one, but being than gathered, and kept till October, it eats as well as a Medlar. The Ash-Tree is by some said to be Male and Female, and may be Raised by Sowing Keys in Octob. or Novemb. not too deep, as they do in South-Spain, or Sow them with Corn, cut your Crop, and you found your Ashes; it may be Raised from a Bough, slipped of with some of the old Wood, a little before the Bud swells: It delights in any Land, so not too wet; for Ash like Cork-Tree will grow where the Bark is peeled of. I have seen the two Ashes, which Dr. Plott mentions, which grow near Gnosall in this County; which, though they grow out of the Ground almost three Yards asunder; yet are joined by a cross piece passing between them, about five Foot from the Ground; such Accidents and Excesses often falling to Trees in their growth, which often looks miraculous hereafter. Virtues and Uses. Ash, say Astrologers is governed by the Sun. A late Author saith the Wood of it may be used instead of Guaicum▪ to cause Sweat; the Bark of the Tree is much used in Diet Drinks, and prescribed by able Physicians, for the opening of the Spleen and Liver, in hypocondriac cases, Dropsies and Jaundice, etc. The immortal Willis in his Chapter de Hemorrhagia, speaking of Remedies, stopping Fluxes of Blood by Sympathy or Antipathy saith, Hem Ligni ● fraxino Virgineo, etc. Also a piece of Wood cut from a Young Ash, first sprouting about the time the Sun enters Taurus; the Efficacy of which remedy in the Civil Wars many worthy of Credit a firm, to have tried, and approved for stopping the Haemarrhagies of wounded Soldiers; yea, some still with much Confidence do prescribe it in all Fluxes of Blood. Thus far that learned Man. The Berries of the Quicken-Tree, or Wild-Ash, are bitter and acid, purge waterish Humours bravely, therefore good in the Sourvy, and in Dropsies in Diet-Drinks. And it is said, it will yield a Liquor (if Tapped as we do Biroh in the Spring) highly commended in Scorbutical and Splenetical Affects. Some Authors confidently aver, a Serpent will rather creep through a Fire, than over a Twig of Ash; This is an old Imposture of Pliny, who either took it upon Trust, or else we mistake the Tree. The Ash, and wild Ash. Trees in Calabria (A Country from whence our best Manna is said to come) are esteemed, say Authors, because Manna falleth as a Dew, and congealeth on their Branches in the greatest Heat under the Dog-Star, and is not found on any other Trees; yet Mathiolus saith, it is sometimes found on the Figtree. Vid Chrisostom. Magnenus de Manna. In the Shops. The Kernels of Ash-Tree-Keys, called Lingua Avis, or Semen▪ Fraxini. and Sal. Fraxini. or Salt of Ash-Wood. The Seeds are called Lingua Avis, being like the little Tongue of birds; they are hot and dry in the 2d. Deg. open inside, and are specifically appropriated to the Spleen; the modern Chemists (Glanber especially) highly extol these Seeds, to break the Stone; and the Learned Sir John Floyer saith, they resemble in taste the Jesuits Powder, and are a good Diuretic in the Stone; the fixed Salt of Ash-Wood, is drawn from the Ashes, and made as Salt of Wormwood is, and excels in the aforesaid cases, being usually prescribed in Chalybeal and opening Electuaries, and in Ammoniack Pills (as it is in Pil. Tartar. Quercitani) in Obstructions in the Hypocondies, Melancholy, Cachexies, or ill habit of Body, Jaundice, Scurvy, etc. ℟ Bark of Ash, Tamaris. Ivy, Hartshorn, Liquorace, of each ʒi● or a pugil or two, Bottle them up in a Bottle of Ale (or White Wine) for a Drink to be long followed, in the Rickets, Spleen, Jaundice, Worms, etc. This being held, as a great Secret, by some, and called the famous Ricket Wood, or Drink. ℟. Sem. fraxinʒij. Miles Olis. Coriand. Ppr. Succin Alb. Pul. liqui●it. aa. ʒj. Terebint●▪ Venet. vel Cyprian. q. s. f. pill. instar pisorum, does. iij. vel iiij. quotidie primo & ultimo. This Prescription is the form of an usual Pill much used formerly, by a Famous Doctor in Bristol, in Splenetical, Nephretical, and other Chronical Diseases, altering, and adding to them, other Ingredients, as he saw occasion, as Bac. Junip. Flor. Sulph Mast. Rhabarb. Oc. Cancror. etc. And these generally concluded, a Course of Physic in Chronical Diseases, the cure of which Disease was his Masterpiece. And though these are plain and Galenical, yet great things have been done with them. Barley. Exod. 9 31. Leu. 27. 16. Deut- 8. 8. Ruth 1. 22 and 2. 17, 23. and 32, 15, 17. 2 Sam. 14. 30. and 17. 28, and 21. 9 1 Kings 4. 28. 2 Kings 4. 42. and 7. 1. and 16. 18. 1 Chron. 11. 13. 2 Chron. 2 10, 15. and 27. 5. Jo● 31. 40. Isa. 28. 25. Jer. 41. 8. Ezek 4. 9, 12. and 13. 19 and 45. 13. Hos. 3. 2. Joel. 1. 11. Jo. 6. 9, 13. Rev. 6. 6. N. K. D. P. Hordeum. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Hordeum distichum is common Barley. Quod spica binos ordines habet Hordeum dictich●m minus, is Sprat-barly, Hordeum Polystichum, Square or Bear-Barly or Barly-bies, which is sowed commonly in the Northern parts. Hordeum nudum, or Naked-barly, which chief grows in Germany. If I should go about the descriptions of Barley, every Plough-boy would correct me; or tell which is the most proper Soil, and Time, to Sow it, than most 〈◊〉 and Farmers, would contradict and laugh at me. Virtues and Uses. Our common Barley is cold and dry in the first Degree, and is under heavy Saturn, and far colder than Wheat; the Flour digests, mollifies, and ripens hard Swell in Pultiss●s; but it makes but a heavy, black, unwholesome Bread, especially improper for Scorbutical and Melancholy Constitutions. Burly o● Co●n, when ripe, and reap'l, its fermenting of principally vegitation are shut up, and would, constantly remaindormant, till it either be committed to the Ground, in order to fresh vegitation and multiplication of its Species, or be Malted. Now by Malting, the vegitative fermentation is perverted, and the same Principles driven on to another design of Fermenting in Water after Malting, in order to the making our Drink; for Malting is a kind of Fermentation, whereby the internal Spirit and Salt of the Corn (which is the Soul and Life of it) is acuated, exalted and dilated; And than 'tis quite of a more Noble alimental Nature, being fitted for the further Chemical Operation of the Brewer, who, (if the Maulster, who is not the worst of Chemists, if he hath made it Secundum Artem, without an Empyreumatick Gust or Smath) extracts from it, with a proper Menstrum (Rain-Water is judged the best, especially Vernal Rain for March-beer) our old English drink good Ale, which cometh from the Danish word Ocla, and (if without those vile Commixtures, and unwholesome Additions. Some in order to its Energy, and other compotating ends, are accused to use in the Malt-mash or fermenting Vate) is a most wholesome connatural Drink. Beer (which only differs from Ale, by being well Hopped, in order to its Purgation and Preservation) was formerly more used by our old English Gentry and Housekeepers, than in these days, being laid much aside, upon a vulgar erroneous Opinion, possessing the Minds, not only of the Vulgar, but also of some understanding Men; As that Beer high boiled with Hops, generates the Stone and Gout; which is an absurd mistake, for Hops by Authors, are granted to open, cleanse, and provoke Urine, and are prescribed often by some Physieians in the Stone itself; so that 'tis not the Temperate use, but the abuse of old Beer, in drinking it intemperately, even to Surfeiting, or suffocating the natural Heat, whence Crudities, Phlegmatic Juices and Tartarous Humours are bred, and grow predominant in the Body. Thus Food and other things may perform the same, when taken at unseasonable times, and in such quantities, as to obtund, and overpower the Calidum innactum, and so excite and beget unnatural Heats, even to the calcining and overfixing the Balsamical and Nutritive Juices. I will grant that too large Draughts of old sparkling rich and brisk Beer, may put a Nephritick Person upon a Fit of the Stone, Gravel (or Gout) by exciting the Humours, and precipitating the serous Salt Matter in the Blood, into the Kidneys, by its active and diuretic Quality; but that it generates Gravel or Stones, I cannot opine: And he that in his young days, accustometh himself to drink his Ale, mixed or dashed with a little Beer shall never, when he is old have occasion to repent; for Beerish drink keeps the Stomach clean, excite; the Appetite, and carries of ill Humours by Urine; whereas, fat, new, ropy and sweet Ale (which too often is none of the clearest) dulls the Appetite, creates Clams in the Viscera, and lodges too long in the Urinary Passages. And though 'tis commonly said, that the torturing Malady of the Stone, is grown more frequent and predominant, since that the use of Hops here in England; yet let it be considered that this Disease reigned, and was known here, abundance of Years, before this Vegetable was brought in use amongst us; And that it hath been Intemperance and Luxury, and other Causes, prevailing in these latter days, (and not old Brisk, Spiritous Beer (without Fret and Bitterness) that hath been the Author of this crucifying Malady; for such as throw it upon Hops, are mistaken in the original of Diseases. Now such as would know more of Brewing, and of Malt Drinks, they may consult Lob. & Jo, Bohinus. Lib. 8. Cap 2 where the Malto sive been, Beer and Ale are largely discoursed of. And as for myself, it may be concluded that I am a Toper at old Beer, by my appearing such an Advocate for it. In the Shops. Only French Barley, and a smaller sort of it, called Pearl Parley; I forgot to tell you under the first Head, that Hordeum nudum, otherwise called Triticospeltum, Naked Barley, is sown at Hamstall Ridware in this County, where 'tis called French Barley, because of its likeness to that in the Shops; so much use● by Physicians and Ladies, and at Brocton and Ellarton-Graing, where 'tis called Bore Barley, and Wheat Barley, because saith Dr. Plott, though its Ear be-shaped like Barley, its Grain is like Wheat, without any Husk. Ptisan was a Meat of the Ancients (which we now call Barly-Cream) made by decocting, cleansed and Parboiled Barley, till it bursteth. But Barley boiled and pulped, best represents the Ptisan of the Ancients; we now call our Barleywater Ptisan, which every Gentlewoman and Nurse, knows how to prepare, as also the use of it; In France the Apothecaries keep Ptisans ready in their shops, prepared of Barley, Liquorish, and Raisins, for sale, which are ordinarily bought, and drank to cool, moisten, and cleanse; these Ptis●ns yield nourishment, as is fit for Choleric and Sanguine people in Fevers, and such as have hot affections of the Liver, Stomach, and Reinss. Bay-Tree. Psal. 37, 35. N K. D. P. Arbor indigena virens, Jun. & Trem. vulg. Laurus 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Exotic Herborists make this free differ in its leaves, for it groweth plentifully in Italy, and other hot Countries, the Laurus Sylvestris, or Tinus, the wild Bay-tree, is not found in England, tho' the common Bay-tree, which is a sempergreen, is now commonly found in most Gardens, tho' apt to die through our Northern blasts, from which it should be defended in March, it rather delights in the shade than Sun, and may be propagated by stems slips, or layers, delighting in hot gravelly soil. Laurus Serasus, or Laure●l● is the Laurel. Tree, which is the Mezereum or Spurge Laurel, called Mezereum Germani●um, Chamelet, Laurea Tri●mphans, quia Triumphatores Laureo Coronabantur: It now groweth wild in this Nation, particularly in Cobham-Park in Kent, but is found to be a chief Sempergreen and Ornament in the Gardens of the Curious. Virtues and Uses. Astrologers appoint the Bay-tree to flourish under the Dominion of the Sun, and its domestic Sign Leo. And the Laurel they say is a churlish Martial Plant. The leaves of Bays, are hot and aromatical, used in Baths and ●omentations, for cold distempers of the Nerves and L●mbs, and in hot Ointments, as in Martiatum; many Barbers use them for their grateful smell, to perfume their Lavatories and Washeses. The leaves of Laurel are of a very hot and biting quality not ●●ed in Physic, only many Country people give three leaves dried and rubbed to a fine pow●er, in ●osset-drink, in an Ague, three times before the fits, which strongly Vomits and Purges them, and I can testify, it hath cured several; tho' Sir John Floyer saith, The Decoction of the leaves and Roots, would neither purge nor vomit his Dog; perhaps it operates more freely, being given in substance. I● is too churlish a thing, for silly Women to meddle of, being apt to inflame, and ulcerate the Throat, and produce an Hypercartharis, except it be first prepared as Esula, or Tythim●ls are, by steeping the leaves ●or 24 hour in the best and sharpest Vinegar, than dried and powdered; than two Scruples or a Drachm, mixed with a few Aniseeds, and drank in Posset-drink, sweet Whey, or Wine, will more safely operate upon libious Serosities; for I have known it purge bravely poor people in dropsies. The ol● Naturalists say, The Bay-tree has a property not to be bur● by ●●●●tning, and that it defends a Man near it, not only from the violence thereof, but also from the Malignity of the Devil and Witches, and therefore say they, the Cock resorts thereto in Tempests; This is like many other of their Stories, but agreeable to this, is the Impress or Device of one, who caused a Cock to be painted under a Laurel with this Motto, Sit Evitabile fulmen. The Laurel or Bay-tree, was consecrated to Apollo, growing plentifully on Parnassus, under which 'tis feigned the nine Muses dwelled; hence 'tis the reward of Poesy, and hence our Poet Laureate, For 'tis storied, That Apollo turned his Mistress Daphna, (she flying from his Amours) into a Laurel-tree, whence it hath the name of Da●hnoides in the ancient Herbals. And every Schoolboy can tell you, how the old Romans dedicated this Tree to Triumphs and Victory, sending to their Generals, after a Conquest, a Coronet or Garland of Laurel, with which triumphant Token they came home, (the Senators meeting of them) and were received in great Pomp and State; hence also grew Bays, or Laurel by a Metaphor, signifies a Victor, or denotes a Triumpher. In the Shops. Bacca Lauri, or Bay-berries. Electuarium, and Emphastrum de baccis Lauri. Ol. Laurinum, or Oil of Bays: and Vnguentum Laurinum, or Ointment of Bays, these five standing preparations in our Dispensatories, and Shops, demonstrate the great virtues this flourishing vegetable doth yield, for the Sanity of us Mortals. The Bay-berries are hot and dry in the third degree: do mollify and resolve, used chief in the Colic, and pains arising from wind, excellent in paralitical affects, and move Urine. As much of them in powder as will lie on a new Shilling, hath eased the after pains, given in Posset-drink: Experience hath made me greatly to value the Electuary, being excellent in the fi●s of the Colic or Stone, dissolved to an ounce in a Clyster, and the Plaster seldom fails in cold flatuous pains, applied to the Belly in the Colic, or to other afflicted parts. The Oil of Bays, and the Ointment commonly sold in the shops, are generally a sophisticated hodg-podge, and the Ointment, vulgarly called Oynt of Bays and Quicksilver, commonly sold in some Countries to the Country folk, to cure the Scabbado or Itch, is a very dangerous Ointment, and doth often make work for the Sons of Art. And I do here advice all rational persons, that they touch it not themselves, nor Children, seeing that there are many other methods, and far better and more safe Ointments to conquer that nasty, vexing, and spreading Distemper. Beans. 2 Sam. 1y, 21. Ezek. 4, 9 N. K. D. P. Fab● 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Family of Beans are large and well known, tho' not so numerous as Pulse the large flat Garden Beans (in some Countries called French Beans) being white, red, or blew in colour. These again differ, and are much lesle in other places: The manured field Bean faba equina, commonly sowed for Provender, either alone, or with Pease, and than 'tis called in the Vale of Evesham, Powse, and the sowing time about March Baniard: In some Country's northward, are few or none of this sort, (as about us) are sowed, but the more Oats. I do opine there is a specific difference, if well observed, between the Garden and Field Beans, and not an aecidental one, as some Botanists hold, caused by Soil: Phasecli, Kidny-Beans and French are 〈◊〉 also, nursed up by some Gardiner's, and Flori●●●, to please the Mouth and Eye: The Fabae Sylvestrts, vel veterum, is a wild black Bean, not bigger than a Pease and of ill Taste and Odour. Virtues and Uses. Venus' loers Beans, for the distilled water of the Flowers, is much used by Ladies to varnish their beauty with, and wash away Freckles Green-beans are Cold and Moist, and excrementious, when dry, cold and dry, binding and windy; of the large Garden Beans is cooked that Excellent dish of Beans and Bacon, a constant Treat at a Country House whilst they are in Season; Field Beans, and Powse do feed Horses, and fatten Swine; the Kidney-beans boiled, shells and all, are so eaten (as a rare dish) at some Tables, and nourish more than the former being hot and moist, in the first degree, of easy digestion. Et Excitat Salacitas: Some Authors forbidden the use of Beans, as dulling the senses, and procuring troublesome rest and dreams; but I have no complaints of them amongst the people. But that Beans and Pease may be rendered more excellent and useful, by being malted, appears by the good, and well boiled Beer and Mum, which B●anmalt affords to the Inhabitants of Germany; and our English Maulsters and Brewers, do well know the Advantage of mixing a small proportion, with the ●arly, to be malted together; for say they, it makes Beer to mantle, flower and smile at you, in your Tankard or Glass, and renders it more I risk, Volatile and clear, but two many, in Malt gives it an affrusive Smack and Gust; In some parts of this County, they make Malt of Oats, which mixed with that of Barley is called Dredg- malt in the Morelands', and of it they make a fresh and lively, drink. my old friend and Patient, Mr Tho: Bowyer, who lived and died in the Morelands',) a Gent. that was exceedingly tortured with the Stone and gravel did often Keep Oaten-Ale, which (he said) cleansed the Stomach, raised the Appetite, and provoked Urinal, (as I myself found) bravely. If there were sufficient store of Oats, how profitable might they be to all Brewers, and middling sort of people, if Maulted, in a dearth of Barley; Altering the Taste a little, with a handful or 2 of Hay, Heath or Ling, Broom, and Ground Ivy, or Robin leaves, which also would preserve it. The Contemplation on the variety of Vegetables and plants, which the great Ruler of Nature, has provided, and designed, for one and the same end, and usefulness, should put all those, whose Inclinations lead them to dive and Search into the Secrets of the vegetable Kingdom, upon admiring, praising and thankfully serving the God of all Variety, and also excite them, to a further disquisition, into the Difference, and Nature of Plants, in order to the Sanity, and sustenance of poor decaying Mortal, for tho' now we are crowned with plenty, and variety, yet Dearth and Scarcity may come too soon and if the inevitable Creator, of Nature and all its productions should for our Sinful provocations, suffer it to fall upon us, most, of the Numberless Sinfall Souls, in this Nation would be glad of Beans and Oats for Bread and Beer which now make our Horses to Caper. In the shops. Aqua Horum fabarum, or the Water of Bean flowers: Sal stipitis fabarum, or the Salt of Bean stalks and shells. The first salt, from the Ashes of bean-stalk's (the method of which I would here insert, but that 'tis so difficult to be well prepared, without ocular inspection) is a great diuretic, used chief in the Nephritis and Dropsy. The Ashes of these stalks, and of Wormwood, Broom, twigs of a Vine, and of the Ash-tree, or any three of them are often prescribed by Physicians, to make a Lixivium or Lie: eight Ounces of them, infused four or six hours, or all night, in three or four pints of White Wine, Cider, Ale, or Water (by such who are poor) close stopped on warm ashes, after filtrated, or well strained, than taken from four to eight ounces twice or thrice a day, has cured many, by carrying of the cause of a Dropsy by Urine; it being the fixed Salt, contained in the Ashes of these Vegetables, that do the work. In hard and swelled Testicles, Hydrocele, or watery Tumours of the S●rotum, the farina fabarum, or Meal of Beans mixed up with Vinegar, Water, Honey, and Oil of Camomile into a Pultiss is excellent: or the Meal may be boiled up in Read Wine, adding Camomile and Melilot Flowers powdered gross, some Oil of Roses ●and Camomile, so make a Pultiss. Quaer. Whether the Boona Bean, sive Phaseolut Major, is the Faba of the Ancients- Vid. Dod. & Jo. Bauhin. Boxtree. Isa. 41, 19, & 60, 13. N. K. D. P. Arbor opaca. Jun. & dream. vulgarly Buxus 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ● drusitate & opacitate foliorum; There is a lesser sort called, Bastard Dwarff Box, Chammae Buxus: Box by some Authors is called the Europian Guaicum, it grows in most Gardens. Virtues and Uses. This is another Sempergreen, the leaves being hot and dry, of a loathsome smell, accounted to be under sullen Saturn: It is seldom used in Medicaments, only some Practitioners make it a Succedaneum, to Guaicum, for the Bark of it being bitter and rough, resembles its taste; therefore some use it in these days in Decoctions. and Drinks to Gallican Patients; a piece of singularity and fancy, seeing Guaicum wood is so cheap, and certain in that grand Cure. The leaves chopped small, are mixed with Provender, to kill the Bots in Horses, or boiled for a Drench. This Vegetable is raised with ease, by slips, and the weighty and hard wood thereof, is much used by Engravers, Carvers, Mathematical Instrument-makers. Pipe-makers, (as si Buxos inflare juvat, Virgil,) and other Mechanical persons, as Box-Combs, which, as one saith, bear no small part in the Mili●ia of the Female Art. Box-hedges, formerly an ornament in gentlemen's Gardens, are quite laid aside, to give way to more exotic and rare Trees; yet I remember, still curiously kept at Bellaport, the Seat of that lover of Antiquity, the learned William Cotton Esq a loving Patron, and most noble Benefactor to this most ancient Burough. In the Shops. Ol. Chym. Lign. Buxi, or the Chemical Oil of Box-wood may be had in some shops, being drawed as the Oil of Guaicum, and is said to equalise it in virtues, being excellent in Contusions, Ulcers, pains and rottenness of the Teeth; and is accounted by some to be the Ol. Lign. Heraclei Rulandi, and looked upon to be highly Narcotical; but Sir John Floyer saith, he cannot perceive my n●rcotick quality in this Tree. Box-wood yields more Spirits and lesle Oil, than Guaicum wood; four pounds of wood, gratifying your pains, but with one ounce of Oil, though you have four pound of Spirit or Phlegm; because this wood is fuller of Sulphur than Guaicum, but is not so ponderous and saline. Schroder saith, The Extract of the wood of Box, is sudoriferous and specifical against the Epilepsy, Worms, and Putrefaction, and the Dose of it a small Pill. ●ut this is never kept in the shops, and I only name i● for Tyro's sake, who may love to try Experiments, finding such a good Author commend it. Bramble. Brambles. Judg. 9 14, 15. Is. 34, 13. Luke 6. 44. N. K. D. P. Cynosbatos, spina, Jun. & Trem. Vulg. Rubus vulgaris, vel Sylvestris, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, is the common Bramble, or Black-berry bush, known even to little Children, who love to pick and eat the Berries, which are called, Mora Rubi, Mora Bati. Rubus Idaeus is another sort of Bramble, called Raspis or ●asberry-bush; framboise, Hindberry-bush, the Berries are cal●ed, Mora Rubi Idaei. This sort also grow wild in the North of England on the Mountains, and in Wales abundantly, and called, Idaeus ab Ida Non●e. The Rubus Alpinus, humilis; or Rubus Saxatilis is found in the North West parts of Yorkshire, and on the sides of divers Mountains. Raspberries are now ma●●r'd in many Gardens, being raised by slips, off-Sets, and Suckers, by the ●overs of Fruit, and Gardiners. Virtues and Uses. Bramble belongs to Dame Venus in Aries, say our Astrological Artists; and 'tis fit it should, considering what excellent Wine is made by Ladies and Gentlewomen, of these Berries: The unripe Fruit of the Bramble, are cold and dry, and very astringent; but ripe Blackberries are more temperate, sweet, and subacid, as are Rasp-berries, which are not so binding and rough, but of a more grateful taste: the buds, tender tops, and leaves, dry and bind, are used in Gargarisms and Lotions (with Allom and Honey) for Ulcers and Cankers in the Mouth, and Inflammations of the Throat and Almonds: Rasp-berries are judged more Cordial than Blackberries, and of both, are curiously prepared artificial Wines, very bri●k and pleasant, especially of the Raspis. This ingenious Age being wonderfully improved, so that every Gentleman's Housekeeper is become an English Vintner, making various Wines, from the different Fruits they propagate in their own Gardens. And these female Artists do strive to excel, and outdo one another, in bragging of their Receipts, each hiding her own, as the best and greatest Secret; when alas, all their Tricks and Methods do terminate in (that great word) Fermentation; and every Chemical and Rational Brain can Elixyrate such Domestic Wines, by the dictates of his reason; but to gratify my Readers, of the Female Sex, I shall set down a way of preparing most excellent Wine, from Blackberries, and Rasp-berries, which method (I am sure) is none of the worst. Take a gallon of Black berries, picked and cleansed from filth and rottenness, white powder Sugar half a pound, pour on them a quart of w●ll boiled 〈◊〉, half cold, into an earthen Stand or wooden Vessel that has a tap in the bottom, and stir it, cover it close, and let it stand for a week, than draw it out into another vessel, let it stand all night to settle, and pour of the clear the next morning, and bottle it with a lump of Sugar in each bottle. You may run the thi●ker part through a Flannel, and let it stand to settle and refine. For the best Rasp-berry Wine, Take of cleansed Raisins of the Sun, four pound, bruise them in a Mortar and put them into an earthen ●ot or Stean, that will hold four gallons, to them add six quarts of ripe Raspberries▪ bruised with a large Spoon, and pour upon them two gallons of boiling hot water, that hath boiled an hour, than add one pound and a half of Loaf Sugar, stir it, set it in a Cellar for three days, than let i● run through a Flannel into a Roundlet, in which let it stand three days more, to refine: than bottle it with a ●ump of Sugar: And observe, that your water, (for diver● good reasons not suitable here) said in all your Artificial Wines, should first be very well boiled, even to the consumption of one half of it; for thereby your Wines are more exalted, rich and stronger-bodied, and will keep much longer. And Note further, That crude Tartar powdered, and stirred in with your fruit, and water (allowing about one ounce to two gallons) hath greatly conduced (in another Artificial Wine) to the raising of an higher ferment, and the making of a more exalted, spirituous, and perfect Wine. And it might be worth while to try it, in a small quantity of these or other sorts; but not too much, for Acids hinder fermentation. In the Shops. only Syr. Diamoron▪ or Mel Mororum, or Syr. è moris, (which you please) and is the Diamoron Nicolai, made of the unripe juice of ●lack berries, and Mulberries, of each lb i ss. Honey lb ij. boiled gently to a due consistence of a Syrup, and is called Honey, or Syrup of Mulberries, a well known Medicine for ●ore Mouths, a little Allom being added to it; for this Syrup cooleth and cleanseth the Mouth and Throat, from filth and scurf in Fevers and Inflammations, being ordered in Gargarisms, Mouth-Waters, with Plantain Water and other things in the aforesaid cases. Briar. Briars. Jud. 8. 7, 16. Isai. 5. 6, & 7, 23. 24, 25. & 10. 17. & 32. 13. & 55. 13. Ezek. 2, 6. & 28. 24. Micha, 7. 4. Heb. 6. 8. N K. D. P. Paliurus. Spinus. Oxyacanthus. Spina & Sentis. All these are named for Briars by Jun. & Trem There is a confusion of Names in Botanical Authors about Brambles, Briars, Thorns, Haw-thorns, Barberries, Dog-thorn, etc. but I shall, to direct the young Botanist, endeavour to explain and adjust them. Rosa Canina Sylvestris, is the wild Briar, Hip-tree or Dog-Rose, called Cynosbatus, Cynorrhodius: Rosa Canina Sylvestris Odorata, is the Eglantine Rose, or Sweet Briar, which may be called Eglantinus: Paliurus is Christ-Thorn, or White Thorn. Oxyacanthus is Haw-thorne, Oxyacantha is Barberries. Sentis & Vepres are common words for Briars, and Brambles. There is no specifical difference betwixt the Dog-Rose or Hip-tree. and the Eglantine, except the Odour and fragrant smell And both are so vulgarly known (the last being propagated often in Walks & Gardens▪ growing from Suckers, Stems, or Slips, and often found wild in Hedges) that I shall proceed to their Virtues and Uses. It seems Venus in Aries, loves these sweet though prickly Plants, having a respect for Mars, especially in his own house Aries. Both these Briars yield an Exeres●ence▪ or Spongy-Ball, called, tho' falsely, Bedegaur, or Bedegnar, which is Spina Alba, White Thistle, not White Thorn; and 'tis mistaken also for Spongia quercini generis, or Oak-Balls. The Rose-leaves of these Briars boiled in Whey, purge as Damask-Roses: Sir J. F. saith▪ The Fruit must lie and putrefy before the Conserve of Hips be made. Let the Apothecary observe that. And that he had after fermentation, distilled a very fragrant Spirit from them: The Briar-balls dried and powdered▪ I have given with good success in spitting of Blood. In the Shops. Cons. fruct. Cynosbati, or Conserve of Hips, which is pleasant and made like to Marmalade. It is said by Authors, to be a Lithontriptick, but I know it to be a cooling, strengthening and somewhat binding Conserve, useful in some Fevers, in a hot ●iver and Kidneys, and excellent in the Rheumatism. Willis prescribes it in the Scurvy in a hot constitution, proper also in H●morrhoides, Fluxes, and spitting of Blood. You have this Conserve in Pharmacop●a Bateana, under the Name of Cons. Hepatica Corallitana, more curiously made up with Read Wine, and Asterisked, as a thing the Learned Dr. Bates frequently used; a sufficient commendation of its Excellencies. vid▪ Aq. Cynosbati comp. Bateani. in morbis nephriticis. An Eminent London Doctor, who is a Knight, prescribed this Conserve lately to a worthy Country Gentleman, troubled much with the Stone and Gravel, and I being consulted about the Bill, told the Patient, That I was of Opinion, it was not prescribed as a mere provoker of Urine, or a breaker of the Stone, (for this Gentleman had read much Physic) but to strengthen the Reinss and Kidneys, as some peculiar Medicines do; for that Diuretics over much used, did not only heat and debilitate the Kidneys, but also forced away the Serous, and thinner part of the Blood by Urine, and attracted the thicker and impure unto them, whereby the Gravel and Stone was not diminished, but augmented and indurated. As to Briar-balls, see Dr. Willis, in Exemplis Haemopticorum, cepitque bis in die, etc. and took twice in a day, the powder of the tops, and chief of the hairy Excrescences of Cynorrhodon, or Dog-briar; which only Medicine a certain Physician renowned formerly, for the ●ure of spitting of Blood, used with great success; neither did our Patient receive a lesle happy effect from that Medicine; for presently after he escaped altogether free from a Cough, a Catarrh and spitting of Blood. I have inserted this Observation of Willis, to encourage young Practitioners, (for the old think they know better things) to the Study and Use of simple and cheap Medicines for the poor; wh●●h th●y mu●t look after as w●ll as the rich▪ For Charity is an essential virtue in the constituting a practical Physician, and visits and advice to the poor, b●●et Estimation and a good Name; and among them. if ever you would experimentally know the virtues of Simples and cheap Medicines, you have daily opportunity. Joh●nnes Praevotius has writ an ingenious ●ract in Latin, entitled, Medicina Pauperum, wherein there are plain and simple Medicines for all Diseases in the poor: Paracelsus assigus it for an only cause, why Hypocrates was so fortunate in his Cures, viz. because the common people had a strong conceit of his worth. Spes & Confidentia plus valent quam Medicina. In the Rheumatism, with Phlebotomy, the following Electuary may be an Example to a Practical Tyro. ℟ Cons. Rosar. Rub. ℥ j fruct. Cynosbati ℥ ij. ●pec. Diatrion. Sant. Coral. Rub. Subtle. pulv aa. ʒj. Sir▪ Paralys. q. s. f. Elect Does. quantit. N●●ugland. post Phlebotiam, & ter in die, superbibend. cochl. 8 vel 10 Julap. sequent. ℟. Aq. pap. Rb. ℥ xij Paralies. ℥ iiij. Lumbricor mag. ℥ iss. Saccbar. op●. ℥ j Ms. f. Julap. Remember a Glister once in two days, and Phlebotomy three o● four days till the pain abates. Bull Rushes. Exod. 2. 3. Isa. 18. 2. & 58. 5. N▪ K. D. P. Scirpeae, Junci, Jun. & Trem. vulg. Juncus ●quaticus m●ximus. In some Countries they are called Bumbles, they are said to be a S●urnine Plant, well known to ●●light ●● Bog●y places, and River-si●es. The old Her●als say, 'tis soporiferous, greatly offending the B●ain; yet the Seeds good to stay Flux●s. ●lcok upon it as cold and waterish, and did neve know it used in Medicine▪ Pliny saith, The Roots annually die, and they spring again from the fallen Seed. Vix credit ●●. See Rushes I devotee's (in the last place quoted in Isaiah) an Hypocri●●▪ who on a Fastday, feigns to keep the public Fast▪ and ●ings down his head like a Bulrush. As many such hypocritical Fasters at this time appear on our Monthly Fasts, now appointed and solemnised for the Welfare and Prosperity of The●● Majesties, Their Armies, Undertaking and Government; a sort of Men that T●im all their action's and Words in public Company, and for ●ivate ends and self-interest, to a formal degree of Love and Loyalty towards our Magnanimous. Incomparable▪ and most Heroic King William; but are a degenerated, hollow and rotten race of Protestants, most of which did think, when He was Prince of Orange, He had a Just Cause and Call to undertake what he did, and become our Deliverer▪ but ●ow do Cabal, Whisper, and Murmur▪ living in a hoping and hankering condition▪ after the ●lav●ry and fleshpots of Egypt. But haec obiter, le●ving them always to ●ang their Heads like a Bulrush, and the Bulrushes to the Matt-makers', Chair-makers, etc. Calamus. Exod. 30. 23. Cant. 4. 14. Ezek. 27. 19 N. K. D. P. Calamus Odoratus. Jun▪ & Trvulg. Calamus A●om●ti●us. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Aromatical Reed▪ or sweet Garden-flag▪ Calamus is Arundo, a Reed, a Cane. The true Calamus of the Ancients, I doubt, is scarce found in our Druggist's Shops, growing in India and Syria, at the foot of Mount Libanus. The Calamus in our shops, is the Acorus verus; and the Acorus is ● Root of the Flag-Tribe; they are propagated in some of our Physick-Gardens, by off-sets and Su●kers, in a Natural or Artificial Bogg, requiring moisture; but our Shops are furnished from Turkey and other Countries. Virtues and Uses. C●lamus is bitterish, of hot and subtle parts, and emitteth a pleasant smell, whence it is attributed in Canticles to the Mystical Spouse. It is used in effects of the Womb and Nerves, is Diuretic, and Hepatick, being hot and dry in the second degree and acrid. In the Shops. The Roots: The Volatile virtues fly of, in the powdering of them, without great ●are. Acorus condited, is seldom kept. Electuarium Diacoron. This strengthens the Nerves, and quickens the Senses, useful in all Diseases arising from the coldness of the Brain, & sum venerem excitat. The Dose is half a Drachm, being hot. Sweet-Care. Isa. 43. 24. Jer. 6. 20. N. K. D. P. Calamus Odoratus. Jun. & Tr. Another Name given by our English Translators to Calamus. These Plants of Reeds or C●nes, are of a large affinity: see Reeds. Authors call Arundo Saccharin●, Sugarcanes, Sweet-Canes also. Sugar Reeds in Brazile are called Tacomaxee, to which place it was first Transplanted from the Fortunate Islands. Heretofore it was called Mel ●ru dinaceum, or the Cane-Hony, but since Zucharum or Saccha●um. Virtues and Uses. The Invention of boiling and baking of Sugar is not much above 200 years, and the Refining of it, is since that; a Venetian first sound the Art, and got above 100000 Crowns by it, leaving it, and his Son, a Knight, who quickly consumed it. Before our Ancestors used rough Sugar, as it's distilled from the Canes, and more commonly Honey. Barbadoss carries the Name, chief of our Sugars; But in St. Thomas, have been (and now more no doubt) ●0 Sugar-Houses, called Ingenios', in each of them 200 Slaves to work, which did load yearly 40 Ships. The Indians grinned the Canes, as Tanners do Bark, and in some places, the slaves turn a great Wh●el, as Dogs do a Spit; in others, a Water Wheel, as our Iron Mills, the grinded Dust is boiled in great Cauldrons, till it hath lost its Sweetness, than strained through Strainers, made with Mats and Reeds, etc. again boiled and evaporated to the consistence of Honey, which when cold, is granulated to our Clyster or Kitchen Sugar; which is distributed into all parts of the World, and by the Sugar-Bakers here in Europe, is purged and refined; the Faeces or Dregss dreined from it, being our Mol●ssus or common Treacle. The principle Knack, without which, all their Labour were in vain, is in making the Juice, when boiled, to Kerne or Granulate, which is done by adding to it, a small proportion of Lie: made with (Vegetable) Ashes; without which it would never come to any thing by boiling, but a Syrup, or an Extract: A little fixed Salt crystallizeth and fixeth as it were, a great quantity of the Essential Salt of this Plant. The finest Sugar of all, is made with Limewater (and sometimes Urine) and Whites of Eggs. In the Shops. Sugar is of continual use, in Syrups, Conserves, etc. It is said to be of a temperate quality, but I rather opine it is hot; I look upon it as Procatartick of the Scurvy, and the too common use of it, especially by Children and Youth; insalutary and prejudicial to the whole ●ody, and is naught in Hysterical Fits, by reason it raises Vapours. In the Pestilence, or time of any ●pidentical, or contagious Disease, the following Balsam is an admirable Preservative taken from the bigness of a Pea to a small Nut, in a Morning lasting, dissolved in a Glass of Wine, Cordial Water, or strong Beer or Ale may serve. Fill an Ivory Box, or a Silver one gilt, with well refined Sugar, that is reduced to a very small Powder, upon which let fall drop by drop, some of the distilled chemical Oil of Angelica Roots, (or any other) until the Sugar be sufficiently impregnated and reduced to a consistency, capable to be contained in the box, although it were turned upside down. Let not one wonder, that Sugar should 'cause Oil to mix well, and dissolve in Water, for Sugar is a vegetable Salt whose Nature it is to work; so being mixed of Sulphur and Mercury, whereby it is rendered perceptible of Oil, whose Nature it altars, nevertheless so much, that it easily dissolves and unites itself with Water, by reason of the saline Substance of the said Sugar. And those Elec-Saccharums you found in Authors, are best prepared (and are properly such) as this Balsam. The Oil of Sugar, simple and compound, are standing preparations in some Shops. The Simple Oil is made with Sugar-Candy, and Spirit of Wine, (or best Brandy, or by some Anise-seed Water) giving it flame to burn to a Syrup, in Coughs, and Consumptions. Cassia. Exod. 30. 24. Ps. 45. 8. Ezek. 27. 19 N. K. D. P. Cassia. Jun. & Tr●vulg. Cassia Fistula. It is a round black Cod, or Pipe, about two foot long, being the Fruit of a fair tall Tree, breaking the Cod, or Bark, you found a soft, black, luscious Pulp, divided by many seminal partitions; it is best chosen by its weightiness, and keep it not too dry. It was unknown to the old Writers, and first by the Arabians, brought into use and estimation; it groweth, 'tis said, not in Europe, but the Merchants bring it us from the Indieses, Egypt, Brazil, which Schroderus notes as the best, I have heard, 'tis found in Jamaica, large and fruitful. Virtues and Uses. The Pulp is temperate, only moistens, beloved by sweet mouthed Venus, say our Astrologers; it is used to keep the Body Laxative, being familiarly sucked from the broken Pipe, and swallowed in a morning fasting, it doth gently purge Choler and Phlegm, cooling and opening a hot body; an excellent Purge in the Stone, or Hemorrhoids; but is apt to gripe from its moistness, therefore to be corrected with a few Aniseeds, etc. In the Shops. Cassi● in Fistula, as it comes to us: Cassia extracta pro Clysteribus, which is used in Glisters, Cassia extracta sine foliis Senae: Cassia extracta cum foliis Senae: Diacassi● cum manna. These four last mentioned, are Electuaries, usually prepared and kept in Shops, for the use of Physicians: which demonstrate the great Opinion the old Arabians and modern Practitioners have conceived of this exotic Fruit. The simple Pulp (is never kept ready, but) ought to be freshly drawn whenever 'tis prescribed, in the abovesaid cases, and the Dose of these Electuaries is from half an Ounce to two Ounces. The Bark of Cassia, called Cassia Lignea, is also kept in the Apothecaries▪ Shops, whi●h is acrid and Aromatical, like Cinnamon, and often is substituted for it, being near it in Virtues. The Trees from which they are taken, are very much alike, but not the very same, as some will have it. Cedar-Tree. Cedar, Cedar-wood. Levit. 14▪ 4. 52. Numb. 24. 6. and 19 16. Jud. 9 15. 2 Sam. 5 11. and 7. 2, 7. 1 Kings 4. 33. and 5. 6, 8, 10 and 6. 9, 15, 16, 18, 20, 36. and 7. 2. 3, 7, 11, 12. and 9 11. and 10, 27. 2 Kings 14 19 & 19 23. 1 Chron. 14. 1. and 17. 16. and 22. 4. 2 Chron. 1. 15. and 2. 3, 8, and 9 27 and 25. 18. ●zra 3. 7. Job 40. 17. Psal. 29▪ 5. and 80. 10. and 92. 12. and 104. 16. and 148. 9 Can. 1. 17. and 5. 15. and 8 9 Isai. 2 13. and 9 10. and 14. 8. and 37. 24. and 41. 19▪ and 44. 14. J●r. 22. 7, 14, 15, 23. Ezek. 17. 3, 22, 23. and 27. 5, 24. and 31. 3, 8. Am. 2 9 Zeph. 2. 14. Zec. 11. 2. N. K. D. P. Cedrus, Lignum Cedrinum. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. This Sempergreen, Royal, and Stately Tree surmounts all others in height, the leaves are small thick, and odoriferous▪ the Heart of the Timber is odorous, fast, and read The Fruits, or Cones, called Coni, are shorter, harder, and thicker than the Co●es of the Fir, and Pinetrees, and are to be found on the branches all times of the year, not easily plucked of, and not ripe under two years. There is another sort called Cedrus Ph●nicia. (Phoeni●ia being a Province in Syria, wherein Mount Libanus hath its first rising) which beareth Berries; therefore Baccifera were a better name, thereby to distinguish it from the Coniferous or great Cedar. Clusius describes it under the name of Oxycedrus, from its sharp poi●●e● leaves; it grows wild in France and Spain Ther● are also two smaller sorts which are Shrubs, call●d Cedar Juniper, or prickly Cedar: The other is Lycian Ced●r, pricking not, these also bear small Berries, and do grow in France, Italy, Spain, etc. Jos●phus saith, Cedar was first planted in Judea by Solomon, who planted for posterity. M●lchior Lussy, in Per●grinat. Hi●rosolym, cap. 13. affirms, He hath seen them on Mount Leba●on, some so thick, that six or seven Men can hardly encompass one of them with their Arms stretched out: which may be supposed, saith the great Naturalist and learned Physician, Dr. Grew, above half as thick again as the thickest Oak in England. And Ranwolsius a Traveller, (and confirmed by Monsieur Mancony) saith, Twenty four Trees are left, where Solomon set fourscore thousand Hewers at work, for the building the Temple and Palace: But the Relation of Travellers I am not to question, only we are assured, the●e famous Trees have grown on Mount Lebanon, where they thrust their Roots between the Cliffs of Ro●ks, the better to bear themselves against the strong Storms that blow there; and now they grow in all extremes, in moist Barbados, hot Bermudas, cold New-England, in the Bogs o● ●merica, and Mountains of Asia, why than not more in Old-England, besides those four that grow in the famous Physick-Garden at Chelsey, and at Fulham, as I am informed, in the Bishop of London's Garden, and some other places. Virtues and Uses. All say, this is a Solar Tree, delighting most in Torrid Climes; it hath a fragrant Turpentine smell, and said to be hot and dry in the third Degree, bitterish and acrid to the Gust, yielding from its smooth Branches, a most Balsamic Liquor, which the Sun and Air condensates to a white Rosin, called Cedria, or R●s●●a Cedrina, subtle and odorous. And 'tis affirmed, that some of our common Tar distils from the prickly Cedars, when they are burnt. These durable Trees, for their perpetuity, have been put to profane, as well as Sacred uses, for the Gentiles and Heathens Carved their Devils and Images of it, as well as Solomon and others, than (and since many years) did bu●ld their Magnificent Houses, Adorned Places, dedicated to God's Worship, and Wainscotted Rooms therewith, being a Wood non putrescit, nec cari●mse●●it, so not obnoxious to Worms: And its perfuming Odour, corrects the Malignity and Putridness of a Morbifical Air, and consequently useful in all close, and narrow, yet large and populous Towns: Cedar Wood is so dry and brittle, it will not well endure Nails, but Pins, and so most precious and everlasting Utensils have been ma●e thereof: so Cedro digna, a Saying of old, denoted a thing worthy of Eternity. In the Shops. There is not any thing in o●r Shops, which doth proceed from this renowned Vegetable, except there be any of the Rozin, o● liquid pitch, amongst the various sorts that are brought home by our Trading Ships. This exotic Tree is but little used amongst us, and than for its rarity and preciousness, as abovesaid; but the ancient Egyptians did Embalm their Dead with the Juice and Rozin of it. The Salinator, (the embalmer being so called) first filled the Guts Glyster-wise, with the Juice or Oil of Cedar, than salted without any Incision or unboweling, the whole Body with S●l Nitri, (or some other Salt) for 70 days complete, on the last of which days, they draw out the clyster, being of such powerful virtue, that it brings the Guts and Viscera wasted away with it: and the remaining Humidity of the Body were consumed by the Ni●re, and the Skin and Bones only left which were well anointed with the Rozin, which preserved it without putrefaction, (is so●e of old did Book● to preserve them) abundance of years▪ They ●●d two or three other ways more co●ly and rich, but this served the poorer sort of people. Much more could I say concerning this admirable Vegetable, which is in so many places mentioned by the inspired Penmen of Holy Writ; but I leave it to any future Expositor, Commentator, or Learned Divine, who will found it a very copious Subject to Animadvert upon. See Almug. & Shittah-tree. Chesnut-Tree. Gen. 30. 37. Ezek. 31. 8. N K. D. P. Platanus, Caestanea. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Castanea 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉: Platanus is the Planetree. A latitudine foliorum, The Leaves of Chesnut and Planetree being very broad. This Nut is said to be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉; Glans Jovis. Dioscor. Glans Sardiana from the Island Sardinia Plin. There have abundance of these Trees, grown in our Woods and Copses, formerly in England (but destroyed for Timber) especially in Kent, whence still, and in other places, they are well known to be a large big Tree, the Nut is armed and coated with a spinous Husk, and falls out at Autumn; the Kernel is coated with a thin; read Membrane or Skin; in some places the Frult is greater and pleasant, in others smaller, and of a worse gust. Fitz Stephens describing London, tells us of a large Forest of these Trees on the Boreal part of it. But Caesar transplanted them first into Italy, from Sard●s in Lydia, thence they came into France. England; but Portugal is said to yield the best kind of them. Those in New-England, are in figure like our common Sort, but a little lesle, and are not Horse-Chesnuts. Virtues and Uses. The Fruit is sweet in Taste, the whole Tree rather hot than cold. Galen affirmed it to be the best of all Nuts, nourishing well, but apt to bind, being very dry and windy. 'Tis a Masculine, robust Food, the Bread of the Flour being excee●ing Nutritive, and Moufet saith, in places where they abound, Bread is commonly made of them: B●uy●irus does affirm in his Time (about 100 years since) they were brought with the last Course to the Table of Princes, and the French used to make, and eat Chesnut-●ottage. For it is recorded how Chestnuts relieved France in the Extremity of their Civil Wars, when their Ploughs were forsaken. As the Potadoes in Barbados did Ireland from two years' Famine, in the memory of many living. In Italy they eat them with Bacon, instead of Beans, and in France they are variously Cooked with Wine, Lemon Juice, Rosewater, Sugar, etc. and are accounted a pleasant and nourishing Treat; but are dyspeptick, and bad in Cholical Habits of Body, if eaten raw; if Roasted, they more easily descend, are lesle windy, ●et Astringent. And 'tis certain the Rustics are sustained by them in Italy, and other Parts, and the Rich eat them decorticated, and prepared as abovesaid. The Timber is soft, and esteemed by the Joiner's and others next to O●; And formerly the Houses of old London were Built thereof. These Trees are raised best by Sowing the Nu●s, as the ingenious Mr. Evelin hath set down at large, in his Book of Forrest-Trees. In the Shops. Chesnut is set down amongst the Fruits in the London Dispensatory, as is the Bark; but rarely found in the Apothecary's Shops, being seldom prescribed to them. In all Fluxes, especially Uterine, the read Skin dried is admirable, being made into Powder, with its equal weight of Ivory. Does. ʒij. in any proper 〈◊〉. In a Cough, and spitting of ●lood, an Electuary is made of the Farina Castaneae, or Flour of Chestnuts and Hony. And in the heart of Urine, an Emulsion of them, made with a decoction of Liquorish and white Poppy-seeds, is excellent, saith a late Author. And it were a good and profitable Work if this useful Vegetable were by some public spirited and landed Gent. sowed and propagated, for the Use and Help of the poorer People, especially in scarce and indigent Times. They differ much, according to the Soil, as you may observe by those that grow (tho' not common) in some Gardens. Co●kle. Job 31. 40. N K. D. P. Vitium frugum, Jun. & Tr. i e. fruges viti●tae, a corrupt Corn, or spurious Grain, that Job in protesting his Integrity, wisheth instead of Barley, if he hath done amiss. Which our Trausl●tors call Coc●le, vulg. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, à seminis nigredine, a wild or bastard Nigella▪ or Gith, or ●ockle, called also Nigellastrum. Melanthium is the true Nigella Romana, or Gith called also Githago, Gith, black Cummia, or Fennil-flower. It would be ridiculous for me to describe this ill weed Cockle, so well known to the Husbandman, for a prejudicial Enemy to his Corn not only whilst it grows up amongst it, robbing it of its nutritive Juice in the Earth, but also the small black Seed or Grain, is a great discredit to Wheat and Barley, if not well cleansed from it. Virtues and Uses. The colour, ill taste, and vices of this Plant, demonstrate it to belong to the ill natured Planet Saturn, being hot and dry in the second Degree. I am unacquainted with its Medical Virtues, but do judge, where it's grinded with our Breadcorn, (for some have it more than others) it gives the Bread a vertiginous Stupefaction. I found the old Herbals say, The parcked Seeds help the Yellow Jaundice, and being decocted and drank, expelleth the Stone; and Hypocrates doth order a Pessarium of it in Morbis ●oemini●is; so by reciting these virtues, the old Adage is verified, Every Weed is good for something. In the Shops. 'Tis not used, but the Nigella Seeds are nominated by the Honourable College of Physicians in their Pharmacopeia They are hot and dry in the third Degree, accounted to be Pectoral, and Diuretic. And Schroderus saith, They are specifical in Quotidian and Quartan Fevers. They are black Seeds, and usually kept in the Shops, and are an Ingredient in Electuarium de bacc. Lauri. Antidote Mathioli, etc. Coriander-Seed. Exod. 16. 31. Numb. 11. 7. N. K. D. P. Coriandrum 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Coriander is propagated for its Seed, by the Gardiner's in fertile Soil, but most of it is brought from other Countries, as Germany, etc. and is well known. Virtues and Uses. This Plant hath a foetid rank smell, and said to be under the hurtful Planet Saturn, cold and dry, offensive to the Head, and its foetor is esteemed malignant: The leaves are proper in Pultisses, in hot Tumours and Inflammations▪ In the Shop●. S●men Coriandri, or Coriander-Seed. They are hot and dry in the third Degree, of an aromatic and sweetish taste, somewhat Astringent, and Carminative. They are excellent in weak and tender Stomaches, suppress Belchings and Hiccoughs, being used to chew after Meat, and so defend the Head from Vapours. These Seeds are condited, and called Coriander Comfits, sold in most retail Shops, both Seeds and Comfits are by Practitioners used in Digestive and Peptick Confections and Powders, to close the Mouth of the Stomach, stay Vomiting, and repress Fumes; and good in other flatulent cases; being often prescribed in Vernal or Diet-Drinks, to correct other Ingredients, I mean the Seeds (not the Comfits) in Drinks. These Seeds are, or aught to be corrected and prepared, by steeping them 24 hours in White Wine Vinegar, than dried, to correct their volatile noxious quality, which they derive from the Plant, and is apt to offend the Head: But I fear the Apothecaries (most of them) are careless, and seldom mind it before they use them, tho' ordered to be prepared so, by the College of Physicians. The Decoction of these Seeds, and likewise of Fennil, Aniseed, etc. doth signify little, as to their Virtue, for t●o ' they loose much of their tastes themselves, yet convey very little of them to t●e Liquors wherein they are boiled; the greater portion of their Volatile parts, and so their Virtue and Tastes therewith flying away: Therefore an Emulsion made from them with their own Decoction, is much better, especially if the Medicine be intended to be Carminative. Grew. Cucumber. Numb. 11. 15. Isai. 1. 8. N. K. D. P. cucumber, Cucumis. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 cucumber a curvore: others à Cucuma quoth▪ ventrem magnum hab●at. This Vegetable is of a large Family or Tribe, the Melons, Pepons, Pompio●s, Gourds, Citruls, etc. are all related to it, they differ in magnitude, colour, ponderosity, figure, etc. meliorated and accelerated by the ingenious and artificial propagation and experience of Naturali●ts, and Gardiners in hot beds, from February until May, that they may vend them under one another, for culinary uses. Cucumbers or Mutton-cumbers, are called also Cucumi● Sa●ivus vulgaris vel es●ulentus, and being so commonly known, needs not any description. cucumber Asininus, vel agrestis, wild Cucumber, is also well known in hot Countries, and to those that make ●laterium. Virtues and Uses. This Fruit is to be chosen green, rather immature and not yellow: they are cold and moist, under the Moon, yielding little good nourishment, though Cooked, and Corrected several ways, by those that delight in them, being eat most simple, they cool hot Stomaches, and Liver, and dull Venus; excellent, saith one, in Ulcers of the Kidneys and Bladder. The Juice or distilled Water is prised in the beautifying Art, by some Ladies, and used in deformities of the Skin. Fructus Cucumeris virtute ●itrosa pr●ditus, etc. saith Willis, Cucumbers being endowed with a Nitrous virtue, are approved by Experience against the Impetigo or Leprosy; wherefore let them be often eaten instead of a Salad; and also slice and infuse three or four of them in three pints of water, close stopped all night, and to the clear poured out Liquor, add two or three Drachms of Sal Pruuell●. Dose half a pound, thrice or oftener in a day, the Decoction of the Leaves and Fruit do profit also. And let me add to what the Dr. hath said, grounded upon Reason and Experience, That the Leaves and Fruit are ●● excellent Antiscorbutic, cooling and pacifying the exorbitant Sulphurec-Saline Particles of the Blood, in an adust Dyscrasy of the same, and hot Scorbutical Constitution: For they move Urine, and fix the volatile Miasma of the ●loo● by their Nitrous quality, and being waterish and slimy, they obtund the igneous and faline predominancy thereof. In the Shops. Semina quatuor frigida marjoram. T●e four greater cold Seeds, accounted so by Artists, are emen Cucumeris, Cucumber Seed: Semen Citrulli (called of the Ancients Anguria) Citrul Seed, and Seed of Gourds, and Melons, of which see more forward. These are used in Emulsions, in Fevers, Pleurisies, Frenzies, Stone, and Inflammation of the Reinss, and in cooling Drinks made by Decoction, often prescribed by Physicians; particularly they are Ingredients in several Powders in our Pharmacopoea Londinensis, or London-Dispensatory. Elaterium (also in the Shops) is the bitter Juice of the wild Cucumber, expressed, evaporated an● inspissated to a hard Consistence. In the Election of it the oldest is accounted the best; for it loseth nor its Faculties in two or three years, consisting of a great deal of volatile Salt and Sulphur, which preserves its more ample Matter from Corruption, communicating a Colliquative and Purgative Virtue; for the whole Plant is hot, bitter and acrid, differing from the Garden Cucumbers, in that this purgeth strongly, and the Garden not at all; yet in being Diuretic they both agreed. It is a violent Hydragogue, purging Phlegm and Water, and often moves vomiting▪ to be used with Caution, and not▪ at all to Women with Child. Does. from iij. to x. o●▪ xv Gr. Praeparatio Elaterii is in the Dispensatory, which is only the depurated Juice inspissated, as I told you before, and aught to be corrected and meliorated, by an Extract in Spir. Vini, etc. To conclude, Take what the Famous Willis saith thereof in Cap. de Remediis ad Asciten. Elaterium Hydragogon potentisfimum, etc. Elaterium is truly held the most powerful Hydragogue, for that it most sharply irritating the Splanchnick Fibres, and together dissolving, by a certain corrosive Virtue, the Blood and Humours, compels whatsoever ●erosities are contained in the Coats of the Bowels, Membranes, Vessels; also i● the Glandules and Flesh, to be cast out into the Cavities of the Stomach and Guts. By which Medicine, happily operating, the falling of the Abdo●●● doth sometimes follow. The Tincture or Essence may be extracted with Spirit of Wine, or Tincture of Salt of Tart●r extracted or thus prepared: it is a Sovereign Cathartick in the Gout, Dropsy, Lues, carrying of all remote malignant Serosities, and other morbific Humours in Chronical Diseases. Emplastrum Sicyonium, or Emplaster of wild Cucumber Roots, is another Preparation made from this Vegetable, propagated in some Physick-Gardens for these uses. This Emplaster is seldom kept ready made by the Apothecaries. I never used it, but Authors say its purging and drying; and that being laid upon a Dropsical Belly, it drives out the Water by Stool, and dries up the Remainder, being seasonably and methodically applied. In a Dropsy you have a proper Purge from this Plant the Elaterium, though it is seldom given of itself, but made up with some other Pill; (Note, the best Elaterium is that which being held near a Candle, sparkles, and puts out the light) Also it yields you a Plaster, which is proper in the same case. Vid. Aqu. Cucumerum comp. Bateani in Nephrit. Note, when Cucumbers at their first rising, have shot four Joints, you may hasten the Fruit, by pinching of the head of the Stalk. Cummin. Isa. 28. 25, 27. Matth. 23. 23. N. K. D. P. Cumminum. Cyminum, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. This Plant groweth like Fenil or Anise, in lesser Asia, Egypt, Spain, Italy, and other hot Countries, whence the Seeds are brought us; for Coriander and these Seeds▪ rarely come to perfection here, especially to such a quantity as to serve the Shop●●o vend. Virtues and Uses This is a solar Seed, hot and dry in the third Degboth bitter and swe●t, so differ from Coriander, of an Aromatic, but not pleasant Smell; do digest and rarify, dispersing Wind and Flatus' of the whole Body: Useful in the Colic, Tympany, Spleen and Vertigo, is Anodyne, and successfully used in Cataplasms and Fomentations, Clysters, etc. provoke Urine, and warm the Matrix. Being made into a Sacculus or little Bag, with Bay-Salt, heated and sprinkled with a little Vinegar, than applied, helpeth Stitches bravely, and pain of the Spleen. In the Shops. Semen Cymini, or Cummin-seed are one of the four greater Hot-seeds; the other three being Anise-seed, Caraway and Fenil-seeds; they are not so much given inwardly by Practitioners, as the Coriander and these other Seeds, by reason of their strong, bitterish savour and gust; if they are, they ought to be corrected as Coriander. The second Thing is the Powder called Diaspoliticum, made of Cummin-seed prepared, Leaves of Rue, long Pepper aa. One Ounce, Salt-Peter half an Ounce, beaten into a fine Powder; Dose is half a Drachm, or as much as will lie on a , in some Syrup, or Cordial▪ Water or Beer: 'Tis excellent after Meat to prevent the putrefaction of it, warms the Stomach before Meat, and preventetl● Crudities and windy Belching●▪ The third Preparation is Emplastrum de Cymino, or Emplaster of Cummin-seed, excellent in th● Colic, if applied to the Belly, as hath been often proved, helpeth old Aches, and painful Tumours, caused by Cold and Bruises▪ The last Medicine this Seed affords us is the Oleum Chym. Sem. Cymini, or the Chemical Oil of Cummin-seed; the Dose 6 or 8 Drops in Broth, or other Liquor, A great expeller of Wind, if it disturb the Spleen, Reinss, stop Urine, or in a tormenting Colic; but in these cases be sure to remember Clysters. Cinnamon. Exod. 20. 23. Prov. 7. 17. Cant. 4. 14. Rev. 18. 13. N. K. D. P. Cinnamomum. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, in the Molucco Islands called Canama, from Can which is wood, and Nama sweet, so Canama, by reason of its sweet savour. Cinnamon is the Bark of a Tree as big as an Olive-Tree, with leaves like a Bay-Tree, and Fruit like a small Olive, or Bay-berry, the interior Bark of it being peeled (every third year) and dried in the Sun, than rolled as we see it, is our Cinnamon; 'Tis an ever-green Tree, as are all or most of the Moluccoes, and East-India Vegetables; the best cometh from Java, and Ceylan, stored with whole Woods heretofore: At Ormur (an Island in the Bay of Persia, whither 'tis brought first from India) 'tis called Darchini, or Wood of China, and thence coming to Alexandria, 'tis called Cinnamon. Virtues and Uses. The Astrologers place it under Jupiter (the Sun I should think) being hot and dry in the second Deg. possessing a subtle, volatile, Sulphureous Salt (as all Aromatical Bodies do) which if animated by a proper spirituous Menstruum, yields as great quantity of an efficacious Spirit, as any Vegetable whatsoever. The best Cinnamon is that which has the strongest smell, is quick upon the taste, and looks of a reddish colour. It is good to fortify the Stomach, to help perspiration of gross Humours, to strengthen and rejoice the Heart, and in Hysterical cases. Half a Drachm of it fresh po●dered, and given to a Woman that languisheth in Labour, is a Medicine worth Gold. In the Shops. The Water of Cinnamon, the Spirit, the Chemical Oil, the Syrup, and Powder called Diacinnamomum: All which are great Cordials▪ useful in the cold affects of the Ventricle and Matrix, and in other cases, wherein Cinnamon is well known to be proper and useful. But observe, that the Virtues of Cinnamon are easily (and indeed too often) lost by erroneous processes, and common Operations, (as in the Syrup and Powder) its cordial subtle Salt being best extracted, and preserved with its fragrancy by Chemistry, and not by common Pharmacy. The Oil procures easy delivery to Women, is an admirable Corroborative, one drop being mixed in a little Sugar-Candy (to make the Eleosaccharum, or Balsam) is easily dissolved in any Cordial or Hysterical Waters, or Wine. See under Sweet Cane. The Spirituous Water of Cinnamon, is nothing but a rarified Oil, whose parts are separated in water (all Aromatic Essences or Oils of Herbs, Wool●, Flowers, and Barks, that are strong Aromatick●) by fermentation▪ so as they become imperceptible, two or three Drachms is a sufficient Dose. Tinctura Cinnamomi, or Tincture of Cinnamon (and of all other odoriferous Vegetables) may be drawn in Spirit of Wine, in which the more Oily parts of Cinnamon are exalted. This I have used instead of Spirit of Cinnamon-Water, being an admirable Cordial easily made, therefore I do here communicate it to my Reader, whether Practitioners, Ladies, or others. Take bruised Cinnamon, as much as you please, put it into a Matrass (a Bottle may do) and pour upon it Spirit of Wine one Finger above it, st●p it close, and set it in Digestion in Horse-dung four or five days, or longer; the Spirit of Wine will be impregnated with the Tincture of Cinnamon, and become read; separate it from the Cinnamon by siltration, and keep it in a Vial close slopped. It must be used in a little smaller Dose than Cinnamon-Water: It may ●e done in the best Brandy also. The Cinnamon or Almond-Caudle (Caudela Amygdalina) much used by the learned Dr. Bates, (as it is in the P●armacopoeia Bat.) is very proper for Child-bed-Women that are weak, especially if they are taken with any Looseness, or immoderate Fluxes; and for Children and others, weakened through long Fluxes, or over Purgations, and Vomitings. The Receipt is, ℟. Ale or Beer not hoped, a quart, Spring-water one pint, Cinnamon a little bruised one ounce, boy● it till the third part is consumed, strain it, and than add to i● of the largest sweet Almonds rubbed clean (but the skin not peeled of) and bruised, threes●ore, boil it a little again, strain it and express it through a Sieve, and sweeten it with two ounces of the best Loaf-Sugar, half an ounce of Cinnamon may serve some times; it is a pleasant and refreshing Cordial, I do assure you. Lastly, I shall (besides the Caudle) advice all Pious and Charitable Ladies, and Gentlewomen, who often do good amongst their poor Neighbours, to the use of the Cordial Julep (or Syrup as some call it) in our Dispensatories, a thing I have often prescribed to my great content, and satisfaction of my Patients. ℟. Rhenish-Wine a quart, Rose-Water three ounces, Cloves bruised two scruples, Cinnamon half a drachm, Ginger two scruples, White Sugar three ounces, (Ambergreese three grains, Musk one grain, but these may be left out) infuse it all close stopped for all night, or two or three hours, setting the Bottle in a Kettle of water over the fire, (Baln●o Mariae, as 'tis called) or for haste, on hot embers in a J●g, or boil it presently, as often it is done, but with a gentle fire, till about a quarter of a pint is wasted, strain and bottle it. The Ambergreese and Musk ought to be added, if at all, when 'tis strained. So have you tho' a plain, yet an excellent Cordial, White-Wine (or Claret, if binding is required) may serve, nay the best Cider now, etc. Cypress-Tree. Isai. 44. 14. N. K. D. P. Cupressus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Cypress-Trees are Male and Female, the Male beareth Cones best, the Female is chief in our Gardens, and is most Pyramidal. The Wood of this ever-green Tree is yellowish, fragrant, durable, and precious; it came first from Creta, now Candia in Greece, saith Pliny. The Cones or Nuces Cupressi, Cypress-Nuts, vary in magnitude, according to the Clime and Soil (as doth the Tree) containing a flat grayish Seed. 'tis now an Ornament in the Gardens of our Great Men, and some will admit of no distinction between the Male or wild Cypress, and the Garden or Female, but only a more comely growth and equal form, in the latter attributed to the Soil and Art. It's chief delight is in hot Mountainous Countries, as the Isle of Coos, Cyrene, Rhodes, Cyprus, which took its Name from the abundance of these Trees, say some Geographers, where a Gum flows (in these Solar Regions) of a resinous substance, not much inferior to Mastic, which is our Rezina Cypria, or Cyprus Turpentine, as some think. Whether any resinous matter flow from it here in England, I know not. Virtues and Uses. Astrologers say, (for what reason I know not) Saturn governs it; it is accounted dry in the third Degree, and 'tis a very great Astringent: the Fruit (called also Galbuli à Galbo colore) and Leaves smell of Turpentine, and the Leaves have a bitterish taste, without any manifest heat. The Chips of Cypress-wood add a flavour to Muscadine and other rich Wines; its bitterishness preserves it from Worms; and Vitruvius saith, The works of Cypress permanent ad Diuturnitatem. The Timber thereof was in great esteem with the Ancients, the Temple of Diana and other famous Structures have been built therewith: now being used for Chests, Drawers, Harps, and all kind of Musical Instruments (being a sonorous Wood) the valving doors of St. Peter's-Church at Rome, were of this Wood from Constantine till Pope Eugenius IU. almost 600 years, and were than (as sound and fresh as if they had been new made) by that Pope changed into Brass. Plato chose it, as 'tis said, to writ his Laws in it, for its durability, before Brass; and the Athenians used to bury their Heroes in Coffins of this Wood, saith Thucydides; and Semiramis built the lasting Bridge over Euphrates with it. Is. Voss●us affirms it not fit for Shipping; but Bochartus, Fuller, etc. have conf●ted him. The Seeds seldom ripen with us, but are commonly brought in the Nuts, which being sowed in April, saith Mr. Evelyn, and lightly watered after Sunset, till they are come up, (than ●e sparing of it) may after a year be transplanted into sandy, light, and warm Soil, in which they thrive best; whence Cardan says, juxta aquas ares●it, never thriving in boggish cold Earth. It may be cut to the Roots, and yet springs again a fresh, which orethrows that Tradition, viz. It being a Symbol of Mortality, 'tis never to be cut for fear of killing it. Many will have Noah, Gophir, or Ark-wood, to be the wood of the wild Cypress, as dedicated to the dead, because Cypress used to be worn at Funerals. But of this see more under Gophir and Shittim-wood. That this Vegetable hath been exceeding plentiful in several parts of the World, doth appear by our most authentic Geographers; and I found a vast large Wood of it in Candia, Anno 1400. was fired by malice or accident, and burned continually fo● seven years, being fed so long by the unctuous and resinous nature of the Timber. In the Shops. Nuces Cupressi, or Cypress Nuts, are hot in the first, and dry in the third Degree; great binder's, stopping all Fluxes of Blood: Both the tops and leaves of Cypress (with the Nuts) are of late years, much used in Medicines, and often prescribed by Physicians, as young Students in Physic may observe in practical Authors, Willis, etc. in Dysenteries, Ruptures, Diabetes, Haemoptysis, Strangury, Profluv. Catameniorum, & Diaphoresi nimia & depravata Also in Vulnerary Drinks, Gonorrhea's, and other cases that temperate Corroboratives are required in, as in laxative Hectics, Atrophia's, &c. arising from a hot Scorbutical Blood; in Diet-Drinks, Decoctions, Milk-Waters distilled, etc. Elmes. Hos. 4. 13. N. K. D. P. Robur. Jun. & Trem. Vulg. ulmus quod vliginosis locis & humidis melius profici●▪ saith an old Herbalist; but he was mistaken, for it thriveth well, if not better, in dry▪ Lands and Hedge-rowes in some Countries; there are two sorts well known, ulmus folio glabro, the smooth-leaved or Witck-Elm; and the ulmus vulgaris, or common Elm. Some Botanists▪ make two more kinds, from these, to no purpose, altered only by the nature of the Soil and Clime: Mr. Evely● calls them, the Mountain-Elm, thought to be the Oriptelea of Theophrastus, of a smaller leaf, and the French-Elm or Ver●acula, Domestic, Native, having thicker or more glabrous leaves. Virtues and Uses. A Saturnine Tree; the Leaves and Bark be moderately hot, are mucilaginous, seldom used, and rarely mentioned in Materia Medica, but have a cleansing quality, if used in deformities of the Skin, by rub●ling and washing the part with the Liquor found in the Blisters of the Leaves; the fat scum of the Decoction of the Roots, boiled long, is said to procure Hair on a Bald Pate; and the Decoction of the Bark and Leaves, is a good Fomentation in the hot Gout, indurated Tumours, shrunk Nerves, and easeth and cool●th burn; the Leaves bruised with Vinegar, or the Juice extracted, removes Scurff, Morphew, and Beautifies the Skin and Face. This Tree is propagated by Suckers taken from the Root of the Mother-Tree in October, or in March, when the Buds appear; for the smallest Suckers will grow when the Sap stirs first. It is unfit for Copses and Woods, because it loves a spacious place to branch out in; it may be transplanted at twenty years old, but than refresh him with water, and disbranch him, leaving only the top, of which brave Walks are quickly raised. The Timber if it lie wet, or dry, in extremes, is of excellent use, saith Mr. Evelyn; our second Charcoal is made of it, and the dried Leaves kept sweet, are good for Cattles in a scarce year of Fodder: Bees are said at their first flying abroad in the Spring, to surfeit on the blooming Seeds, which kill whole Stocks. Let the Bee-masters or good Housewives observe this. Elm is a fast and hard Wood, its hardness depending on the closeness of the Wood, a cross-grained Timber cleaving unevenly and difficultly, to and from, therefore is best for the Hub of a great Wheel, for Water-Pipes and Pumps, not because it is the most durable Wood, but because it will not split nor crack, therefore also it is used for Coffins, Saddles, and Soles of a Mill-Wheel, the Keel of a Boat, jest they should split. The Leaves may serve for Fodder. The Planks or Groaning-Boards, exposed as a kind of Prodigy some time ago, to the view and hearing of many people, were of Elm; the Aer-Vessels of this Wood, being more large t●an in other Timber, upon the application of the Red-hot-iron, as was usual, the Air and Watery parts in the Timber were rarefied, and every Vessel became as it were, a little Windpipe for their Expiration, and so many Pipes playing together, made a kind of big or groaning noise. Grew. The accidents attending Trees, are remarkable, particularly in their excessive growth, but scarce any County ere produced such Monsters as Staffordshire, as was the prodigious Witch-Elm that grew and was felled at Field (within memory) by Sir Harvey Bagot; the greatness and products of which Tree, I shall (for the diversion of my Reader) take out of Dr. Plot's Natural History of this County, which large Book may not, perhaps, fall into such hands as this lesser Tract may do. It was so great and tall, that two able Workmen were five days in Stocking or Felling it down. That it fell 120 foot, or 40 yards in length. That the Stool was five yards two foot Diameter. That the Tree at the Butt-end was 17 yards in Circumference. That it was eight yards and eight inches, that is 2● foot and a half about by girth-measure in the middle. That 14 loads of Firewood, each as much as six Oxen could draw to the House at Field, being not above 300 yards distant, broke of in the fall. That there was 47 loads more of Firewood, as large as the former, cut from the top. That they were forced to piece two Saws together, a●d put three Men to each end, to cut the Body of it in sunder. That there was cut of it 80 pair of Nathes for Wheels, and 8000 foot of sawn Timber in Board's and Planks, after six score per Cent. which at 3 s. per Cent came to 12 l. All which is attested (in a Paper) foreseeing it would not be believed in after times, under the Hands of Sir Harvey Bagot. Will C●●per, Steward▪ Roger Shaw, Bailiff. Walt. Dixon, Surveyor. Cutters. Laurence Grews, Humphrey Chettom, Stockers. Francis Martial, Thomas March, They computed it to contain 96 Tuns of Timber, a vast quantity for one Tree, requiring good testimonies for its belief. In the Shops. Not standing Preparation; but two things I shall give you worth your knowledge, the first is the Gargarism for sore Mouths, which Dr. Bates much used, as his Pharmacopoeia shows it. ℟. The fresh inward Bark of Elm ℥ iiij. boil it in water ●●iij. to one half, strain it (and it will look read) and put to it Syrup of Raspberries and Mulberries, each ℥ iss. and mix them well, Syrup of Blackberries or Honey of Roses may serve instead of the other Syrups, or good Honey to sweeten it for the poor; I have prescribed it often with good effect. In the Hip-Gout or Sciatica, take the whole Ba●k of this Tree, bruise it well and boil it in water, almost to the thickness of a Syrup, than add to it a third part of Aqua Vitae (or the smaller Brandy.) It is a singular Remedy against the tormenting pain in the Hip, if the part be fomented or ●athed therewith; as some of my poor Country Patients can attest; and I do here publish it to the World for a great Secret. Figtree. Figs. Fig leaves. Gen. 3. 7. Numb. 13. 23, and 20. 5. Deut. 8. 8. Judg. 9 10. 1 Sam. 25. 18. and 30. 12. 1 Kings, 4. 25. 2 Kin. 18. 31. and 20. 7. 1 Chron. 12. 40. Neh. 13. 15. Psal. 105. 33. Prov. 27. 18. Cant. 2. 13. Isai. 34. 4. & 36. 16. & 38. 21. Jer. 5. 7. and 8. 13. and 24. 2. and 29. 17. Hos. 2. 12. and 9 10. Joel 1. 17, 12. and 2. 22. Am. 4. 9 Mic. 4. 4. Nah. 3. 12. Hab. 3. 17. Hag. 2. 19 Zec. 3. 10. Mat. 7. 16. and 21. 19 and 24. 32. Luke 6. 44. and 13. 6. Jo. 1. 48. James 3. 12. Rev. 6. 12. N. K. D. P. Ficus, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Our common dry Figs are called Carica, the unripe Fruit. Grossus Fi●us, is the Fruit, as well as the Tree, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, produco, ob foecunditatem: The Fruit is 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Ficus Sativa, or Garden Figtree propagated here in England, seldom grows but against Walls, as is well known by our Gardeners, and others, who keep them more for Rarity than for the Fruit they yield, Figs seldom coming to Maturity with us, but grow plentifully in Solar Regions, in Spain, Italy, etc. where they produce fresh Fruit three or four times in a year. The Ficus Sylvestris, vel Caprificus, or wild Figtree, in which the Worm Psenas is bred, which Pliny saith, causeth other Trees to ripen. This groweth also in the hot Countries. Our English Trees are low, and full of pith like Elder in their Branches, whence the wood is weak and unprofitable, thence unprofitable Reasonings and contemptible Arguments are called Ficulnae rationes. The Ficus Indica, or Indian Figtree groweth in both Indieses, where 'tis called Arvore de Raise, or the Tree of Roots, because its small thready twigs hanging downward to the Earth, do take root, and so new Trees are propagated, even to a Wood Goropius Becanus saith, Great plenty are found on the Banks of Acesines, a River running into Indus, where Alexander built his Fleet of Galleys, in or near the Kingdom of Porus. The English Figtree is raised by Seed, Slips, and Suckers, and aught to be set in hot Sunny places, and defended from the blasts of Boreas; the want of heat, and budding late, prevents its maturity: If the fruitful buds were inoculated into some early Pear as Bergamos, it might probably produce their maturity in the heat of Summer. Virtues and Uses. I know not of any use in Physic, our English Figs are put to, they are round and long like Pears, and are a Rarity in some great Gardens, and eaten so by Ladies, last Summer (91.) they arrived to a good height of maturity in some well-managed Gardens, particularly at Trenham, but this last Winter has killed (through its coldness) many of them, and this Summer there is no mature Fruit. The Astrologers call it Jupiter's Plant, the Leaves burn the Tongue, of subtle acrid parts, therefore are a hot Caustick, especially its Ashes; the Leaves decocted, may therefore be good to wash sore Heads in the Leprosy, Morphew, and cutaneous running sores. It is upon Record in the Epistles of the Emperor Julian the Apostate, that the Figtrees were seldom or never without Fruit, the old not fully fallen of, till the new come on; which report, if true, (for certainly he did not flatter our Saviour Christ) gives an answer to that difficult Text, where our Saviour cursed the Figtree for not bearing Fruit, whence 'tis said, The time of Fruits was not yet come. For tho' the time of new Fruits was not yet come (being early in the Spring) yet our Saviour might, being hungry, expect to found some old; and failing of his expectation, laid that curse upon it. Becanus affirms, The Indian-Fig was the Tree of Knowledge, and takes the Honour of finding it out: but Moses Bar-Cephas conjectured this 600 years before Becanus was born, who also fancied, the Leaves of this Tree covered the Nakedness of Adam and Eve, and that the large Trunk or Body of the Tree, hide them from the presence of the Lord God; but Sir Walter Raleigh explodes these conjectural fancies of Becanus, and saith, It is a shame to repeat what magnitude Strabo, Aristobulus and others give to this Tree, As that 400 Horsemen might shadow themselves under it, for that he himself saw 20000 in one Valley in America, not far from Paria, growing in a moist Land, which had no such large Trunk, nor Leaves, nor delicate Fruit as they talk of. But I have dwelled too long upon this Subject, (not in my Province) and shall leave it to any future Commentator, or learned Expositor, a Naturalist, or Divine. In the Shops. Only d●y Figs, and not at all times of the year neither; Figs do dissolve and ripen, are used in the Small Pox, and Diseases of the Lungs, in Pectoral Decoctions, Squinzey, Sore Throats, etc. A Fig sliced and toasted, and applied to an aching Tooth, hath sometimes given ease. And the Milky juice of the unripe Figs, I have known prove a good cleanser and smother of the Skin; mark that, you Women, and Morphewed Ladies, that have it in your Gardens. Firr-Tree. Firr-Wood. 2 Sam. 6. 5. 1 Kings 5. 8. and 6. 15, 34, 9, 11. 2 Kings 19 23. 2 Chr. 2. 8. and 3. 5. Psal. 104 17. Cant. 1. 17. Isai. 14. 8. and 37. 24. and 41. 19 and 55. 13. and 60 13. Ezek. 27. 5. and 31. 8. Hos 14 8 Nah. 2. 3. Zec. 11. 2. N. K. D. P. Abies▪ 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 This Stately Coniferous Tree hath a smooth even Body, serving to make Masts for Ships, whence the Dutch call it Mastboom. The two principal Species are the Male, the most beautiful in altitude and smoothness, and Female suffer and whiter. They are raised from the Seeds taken out of the Cones, when laid before the fire, or in warm water (as Fine are) or propagated by Layers; transplant them at two or three years' growth, and after three or four Springs, they will shoot prodigiously in height, provided they be the Abies ●●gitima v●l Mas Bellonii, whose Cones or Apples always stand upright, the Leaves fl●t and thick set on the Branches, only on two sides, so that (as Parkinson calls it) they show like the Teeth of a Comb. There are 36 of this sort grow disorderly, of an excessive height at Warton, (on the Land of the Right Worshipful Sir Charles Skrymsher of Norbury in this County) in the Hedges and Fields, many of them being about 40 yards high, and one of them is 47 yards and a half, (seven yards higher than the aforesaid Elm) having the advantage of a rising ground, they appear pleasantly as so many Spire-Steeples to Travellers at a far distance on the Roads, particularly, as you ride Worcester Road from Tonge-Castle to Newport. The Female or common Fir, is the Picea alba Dodonei, or ●oemina Ba●hini, the Leaves are round, and thick set on all sides of the Branches; the Scotch Fir are a Species of this sort with us. Firr-Trees being raised greatly in our English Gardens, Walks, and Avenues for Ornament, But they naturally grow on high Mountains in Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, Denmark, etc. Simlerus saith, The Male-Firr grows abundantly in Burgundy and the Alpss; sometimes in height above 130 foot. In the Highlands in Scotland, they are to be found, but not in Ireland, except planted. Fir and Pines, no doubt, are Natives of Eng. and formerly growed as other Timber, naturally themselves; for 'tis well known, that a grand number of the entire Trees, have been found buried under ground▪ and vast quantities of the Wood painfully dug up by the poorer sort, finding the stumps in Mossy and Boggy Heaths in Cumberland, Lancashire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, particularly in the Moss-pits, and Shebben-pool near to those that grow so bravely at Warton aforesaid. Dr Merret in his Pinax, tells us of Subterraneous Trees in several places in England, whether, as 'tis vulgarly thought, Noah's Flood buried them, or some Earthquake or Inundation since, is a Query I shall leave to the Learned. Virtues and Uses. This Aromatical and ever-green Vegetable, belongs to Mars, and so helps him to a Balsamic Gummy Juice, flowing from the young Trees, called L●●rym● Abietis, the Tears of Fir (which is brought over Sea to us, as a Species of Venice Turpentine) to cure his wounds with. A●iegna Rezina, or dry Rosin, flowing from the old Trees, is a Succedaneum to Thus, and some say is really Frankincense: The Leaves have a bitterish Turpentine taste and smell, and the Tops also, much used now in the Scurvy, and Stone, in Diet-Drinks and Milk-Waters, in Wound-Drinks, cleansing and sweetening the Blood: The Cones are seldom used; the Bark dries and binds, the Gummous Juice or Turpentine, and the Rezine are more sharp and cleansing than those that emanate from the Pine. See Pinetree. The Swedes in a War against the Muscovites, were so o'erspread with the Scurvy, that their Soldiers languished and wasted away to nothing, till once encamping near Fir-Trees, they began to boil the Tops of them in their Drink, which recovered the Army even to a Miracle, whence called by them the S●o●b●tick-Tree to this day. The Balsam, or Turpentine of this Vegetable, proves so effectual in preserving (even dead Bodies themselves) from Putrefaction and Corruption: and he that tries the true Ethereal Oil or Spirit of Turpentine, shall found it comes not far short of Spirit of Wine, in the conservation of Bodies from corruption. In the Shops. Colophony is the Rezine of the Firr-Tree boiled, or Turpentine after the Oil is distilled, left hardened in the bottom of the Veica or Re●ort, which ought to be slowly melted in water, to strain it through a cloth, to purify it, and than boiled to the Rozin, or Colophony kept in the Shops, which digests, agglutinates, and consolidates, in Salves and Emplasters, and may be used instead of boiled Turpentine, in inward Medicines. But more of Terebinthinate and Rezino●s Substances in my next Tract, to which they do more properly belong. That the Tops of Fir, and the shave of Firr-wood or Deal-boards, are now much used instead of Hops, to preserve & invigorate Drink, is well known; but Dr. Merret, in his Observations upon Wines, affirms, Those liquours in which the shave of Fir are put, may be apt to created pains in the Head; this may be occasioned by the strong Turpentine odor they give the Drink, if not well boiled, fermented, and aged. The Inhabitants of Saxony (saith one) a Province of Germany, have so great esteem for the Liquor c●lled Mum▪ that they fancy their Bodies can never decay, nor pine away, as long as they are lined and embalmed with so powerful a Preserver, in which this Balsamic Vegetable Fir is the chiefest Ingredient of the Vegetables that are in it. Dr. Willis prescribes Mum in Chronical Distempers, as Scurvy, Dropfey, etc. and Physicians order it against the breeding of Gravel and Stones, in some sorts of Consumptions, cold Stomaches, Gonorrhea's, obstructions: But it is seldom truly made. And because this Liquor is now much made in England, I shall here set down the Preparation thereof, as it is Recorded among the Secrets of the Family of Bru●swick, a City and Province in Germany, taken out of the Great Dukedom of Saxony, whence our best Mum is called Brunswick Mum. Boil the water first, to the consumption almost of one half, brew so much, as to fill a V●ssel of 16 Gallons, with seven Pecks of Wheat-Malt, one Peck of Oat-Malt, and one Peck of ground Beans, and when it is tuned, let not the Vessel be too much filled at first, when it begins to work, put to it of the inner Bark of Fir twelve ounces, Tops of Fir and Birch, each four ounces, Carduus dried, one Physical handful, Flowers of Rosa Solis, half a handful, Burnet, Margerum, Avens, , Elder-Flowers, wild Thyme, each half a handful, Cardamom-seeds bruised, two drachms; see that the Liquor work over the Vessel as little as may be, fill it up at last with your brewed Liquor, putting into the Vessel three newlaid Egg●, not broken, stop all close, and drink it at two years old. Aegid. Hoffman renders it more effectual in the Scurvy, especially in a sort arising from a thick Saline Blood, and in cold Constitutions, by adding Water-●resses, Brook-lime, and wild Parsley, with Horse-Rhadish roots sliced, each one handful and a half; Bay-berries one ounce. It is a hearty and Stomachical Drink for a mornings-draught. Note, That the Tops of Fir (and other Herbs) ought to be gathered and dried in their proper season, when it abounds most with gummous Balsamic Juice. Vi●. Decoctum Scorbuticum in Pharmacopoeia Batean. Fitches. Isai. 28. 25, 27. Ezek. 4. 9 N. K. D. P. Melanthium▪ Zea. Jun. & Trem. vulg. vicia, à vinciendo, from binding or wrapping, as Varro noteth, vel quod ad mo●um vitis ●●●eat. This well known Vegetable, hath degenerated and branched into many kinds, as Orobus the bitter Vetch, Ervum the Bird-Fitch. Araccus sive Cracca Mayor wild Fitch, or strangle-Tare. Vicia maxima dumetorum Bush-Vetch. Vicia Sylvestris, sive Cracca minima; small wild Tare, or ti●e-Tare, growing too frequently amongst Corn. The Hatchet-Vetch, the Milk-Fitch, Tear everlasting; with others better lost than found by the Husbandman in his Corn: who also in some places, calls them Tares. Virtues and Uses. Saturn sure claims this Plant, and 'tis fit he should have it, it is so like him in its nature, the Seed● being of a heavy, dry, and binding quality, are hard of digestion, and bind the Belly, engendering a thick melancholy Blood, if eaten in Bread, or as Pease. Chief sowed for Cattles, and Horses in some Countries, to which they tedder, or hitch them to eat whilst green, by which the Land is enriched▪ The Juice of green Fitches is given in the Scurvy, saith Sir J. F. to hinder the great fermentation of the Blood. The bitter Vetch, or Orobus, is hot and dry, cleansing, cutting, and opening, yet it causeth the Headache, and troubleth the Belly, saith Dioscorides. The Meal takes away Freckles and Sun-burning, being mixed with Honey and applied; and stayeth running Ulcers, Phag●dens, etc. but I know not any thing of these Vegetables experimentally. In the Shops. There is not any standing or appointed Preparation or Medicine, only the Sem. Orobi, called also Ervi●, are set down amongst the Catalogue of Seeds in the London-Dispensatory. See Cockle for Melanthium. Flags. Exod. 2. 3, 5. Job 8. 11. Isai. 19 6. N. K D. P. Alg●. Vlva. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Gladiolus. Alva & Vlva is Fucus or Sea-wrack. Gladiolus sive I●is Lutea Palustris, is Water- Flag, or Water Flower-de-Luce, and the Acorus Adulterinus in the Shops, is the Roots of it, whence 'tis called Pseudacorus, or Acorus Palustris, yellow Water Flower-de-Luce: These Flags and Flower-de-luces', are all related and derived from one Genus, differing in length, breadth, odor, colour, flowers, some for Beauty more than Medical uses, & è contra, some with tuberous and knobby Roots (as the Roots of the Iris vulgaris, Garden or common Flower-de-Luce which are called also, Radix Marica, good to help the Piles) others with bulbous or Onyon-like Roots. Both these sorts are commonly known; Water- Flag (as Seggs or Sedges, as in some Countries they are called) being like the Garden- Flag or Flower-de-Luce, only grows taller, and the Leaves are sharp edged (thence called also Sword-Flag) with a yellow Flower, growing by River sides, and moist boggy places, the Flower appearing from May to July. The Garden- Flag or Flower-de-Luce (called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Orri● Sacra, the Ancients having esteemed it Holy) bear a blue and yellowish Flower, the Roots being thick, long, and tuberous, with hairy threads; flowering from April to June. There are many kinds of this, as the Florence, Turkey, French Corn- Flag, and many others propagated in the Gardens of the curious Florist, even to above twenty, with different Flowers. Virtues and Uses. Flags are reckoned under Luna, the Roots being cut, look raw like Flesh▪ and being chewed, burn the Mouth as Orris or Garden Flower-de-Luce doth, are hot and dry in the second Degree, bind, condense, and stop Fluxes, strengthen, and may well be preferred before the Galanga Major, or Foreign Acorus in the Shops. These Flags in Foreign parts, are used to cover Sheds, Cabins, and Huts, for Seamen and Fishermen, as some Thatch with them in some places of England. In the Shops. Radix iridis, or Orris Roots; as there are many kinds of Flower-de-luces', so the Roots differ, but the Florentine Orris Root is esteemed the best; the green Roots of Flower-de-Luce, are bitterish and burning, reckoned almost hot in the fourth Degree; dry Orris Roots are very fragrant, hot and dry in the second Degree, are Pectoral, used in shortness of Breath, provoke Urine, and give a curious fragrant relish to Beer, if boiled in it, or infused in the Barrel. Outwardly used in Bags, and quilted Caps for the Head, in sweet Powder for Linen, and Hair-Powder by Barbers. Species Di●ireos Simpl. is a constant Powder in the Shops, prescribed in Linctus' and Electuaries in Coughs, shortness of Breath, and Colds. Succus Ireos nostratis, the Juice of our Orris, or Flower-de-Luce (after the French) is most commonly extracted out of that which bears the purple or blue Flower, hath a very hot acrimony, is often prescribed as a Secret by some, as an excellent purger of waterish Humours in Dropfies, being easy and cheap for the poor. Dose is six drachms to one once and a half, or two ounces of itself, or drawn out with White Wine, or mixed with Posset. In a Dropsy Mass●ria order thus, ℟. Juice of Flower-de-Luce newly drawn with White Wine, three ounces, Manna one ounce and a half, mix them for a Potion. Platerus gave it with Honey, others with Broth or Gruel corrected with Cinnamon. I cured a poor Woman of Stafford formerly, of a Dropsi●, with no▪ other Purge; it powerfully provokes Urine and Stool, but is not sa●e to Children, Old Age, nor Pregnant Women. In the biting of a mad Dog, the Radices Gladioli▪ or Waterflag, with the Roots of Morsus Diaboli, or Devil's- bit, are by some boiled in Water, others in Milk, and given for a week or nine days to the Patient; and the learned Physician Sir J. F. of Litchfield, in his Touchstone of Medicines, says▪ The Astringency of the Root, hinders the fermentative virtue of the animal Venom from producing a Fever in the Blood, and probably dulls the activity of the Venom, which consists in a volatile Salt, and the Acrimony of the Root preserves the Blood from coagulation. I▪ the two Roots were powdered with all, or some of the Ingredients in the Pulvis Antilyssus in the Soud. Pharmacopoeia, it would be more efficacious in such Bites. Because Orris Roots are the ●asi● of Damask, or sweet scented Powder, and of Hair Powders, I shall oblige my Female Readers, and Ladies, with the two following Receipts. ℟. Roots of the best Florentine O●ris ℥ fourteen. Lignum Rhodij ℥ ij Leaves of Marjorumʒiij. Cloves ℥ i ●emo● P●●lʒv. Cyperusʒj Calamus Aromaticus ʒuj 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ℥ iiij. Read Ros●s ℥ ij. Benj●min, Storax, a● ℥ i 〈◊〉 danum ℥ ss, b●●ise them all to a gross 〈◊〉 to ●●y among your Clotheses, sowed up in a thin small 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 carry about you) to preserve them from Moths, and give them a pleasant odor. ℟. Starch sifted fine, one pound, Orris finely powdered, four ounces, Apoplectic Balsam, 20 grains, and rub all in a Mortar together. So have you an excellent and cheap Hair Powder, correcting ill scents, and infectious Air, and wholesome for the Head and Brain. Flax. Exod. 9 31. Josh. 2. 6. Jud●. 15. 14. Prov. 31. 13. Isai. 19 9 & 42. 3. & 43. 17. Ezek. 40. 3. Hos. 2. 5, 9 Mat. 12. 20. N. K. D. P. Linum Ellych●ium. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Linaries as well as the Flower-de-luces', are a numerous Tribe. Linum ●a●ivum, or Garden Flax, is known to every good Housewife; some call it Lyn, whence Linnen-Cloth is made of it; its Seed is called Lynseed, whence Linseed. Oil, Linum Arvense, sive Sylvestre, wild ●la●. Linaria lutea vulgaris, is Toad-flax. The wild differs▪ little or nothing from the manured. There are two or three other Species amongst Authors. Besides what is cultivated in England, great quantities come from Russia, Holland, and other Countries, or else our own Hemp and Flax would not serve our Cordage Trade, etc. Virtues and Uses. Venus no doubt, rules over this good Housewife Plant; the best way of manuring, and ordering of it, is held to be in this County of Stafford, where they sow it, generally, in April on new-broke ground▪ and some sow their Ground one year with Flax, the next with Hemp, all along successively, so that one piece of Ground serves them (without mucking) finding the Soil is mended by the one, when impoverished by the other: When ripe, 'tis pulled and set up in maniples, or large handfuls, to dry them, than ripple it through a double toothed Iron Comb▪ or Engine for the Seed; the boles of Seed are dried▪ and kept on a Po●rded, or Plastered Floor till March, than threshed and winnowed: When the Flax is well dried, they stake it down in water four or five nights, than spread it on the ground to dry, turning it every three days: when dried, 'tis laid up, and when my Dame pleases, Crack the Countryman comes with his Instrument Broke, to separate the Tow from the course Flax or hurds. In our Northern parts of this County, some, instead of soaking it in water, spread it on the ground, to be watered by Rain, which if long absent, make it look blackish▪ but they affirm it to be stronger Flax▪ In like m●●ner do they order their H●mp. Now flax th●s ord●red and prepared, is (amongst other Uses) p●t to a no●le and most necessary ●o●●, by the careful and industrious Housewife, viz. The making of Linen-Cloth for our Corporal and Domestic uses, for our ●e●s, and ●or o●r Board's, much encouraged of late in this Kingdom, by the great Example of o●● Gracious Queen Mary, in whom 〈◊〉 Virtues do conce●●●●, who hath Erected a Co●●●tion for the Linen Manufacture, whereby a vast Employment is given to the Poor, and infinite deal of Money kept in the Kingdom, that Holland and France devoured, with other inestimable benefits. Linnen-Cloth is nothing but that which we call Flax (passing through many hands, and with much pains) curiously twisted, interlaced, and conjoined to a large breadth, and length, for the better service of Man; and our flax or Tow, ready to be spun, is only the Sap-V●ssels, or Woody Fibres of the Bark of this useful Vegetable Flax, which through its toughness, is so highly serviceable; And Scotch-Cloth is only the House-Wifery of the same parts of the Bark of a Nettle. Whence it is very probable, that there are many Plants, whereof might be made good Tow. And of some, especially in some respects, better than of Flax itself, Because, as saith that great Philosopher Dr. G●ew▪ (whose Favours I retain with a grateful resentment) That even Hemp, although it will not make so sine a Staple as Flax (for all our fine Hollands are made of Flax) y●t Flax, which is but of the same sineness as Hemp, will never, by all the Art yet known, be ma●e so white as Hemp is made; the qualities therefore of the b●st Tow that can be in nature, are, that the S●a●le be long, small, ●ough, and white. So that if in the ●ark of any Plant, we can found these qualities, or any of them to excel, we may be sure, it will be of better use, in some respects, for the making of Cloth, or other purpose, than Fl●x itself. Flax (and Hemp also) after much vexation and hardship in its dressing and ordering, being transformed into this curious and useful expansion, called Cloth, rests not so, but is cut, rend▪ and torn▪ for t●e conveniencies and service of undeserving Mortals, by whom it is at last rejecte● (being vil● and base) as Rags. yet unwilling to forsake the service of Man, once more presents itself, to the profit of the poor Beggars, who pick up this castaway, (like themselves, torn and contemptible) to undergo ten thousand times more vexations and contusions by the Hammer, from something into nothing, ad Putrilaginem; but even to admiration, from this slippery and rotten Mucilage, with another artificial help, 'tis again, as it were, revived and transpeciated into a quite different and highly useful form, ca●ed Paper; in which form▪ it presents itself once more, to be the greatest Messenger of the World, and to be the chiefest Interlocutor between Man and Man, to outlive all, and be most men's Executor: so be brief, it is concerned in Sacred, Civil, Foreign, and Domestic Affairs. No Nation uses more Paper, than we in England, and so little made▪ (except Brown Paper and Pasteboard) that is a grand reflection on our National Improvements, and highly prejudicial to our English Interest; but if the Linen Manufacture go on, the Paper Trade as depending and being made thereon, might be improved, for if we made but the W●it● Paper we use, it would set thousands on work, and much more benefit and profit would it bring to the Nation, if it were made for Exportation. I know not of any Physical Virtues that are in common Flax. but what r●sts in the Linseed. Lin●ria or Toa●-Flax, which is a kind of Snap-Dragons, having suchlike Flowers, which are swe●t, bitterish, and mucilaginous; an Ointment may be made of the Flowers, to ●ase the pain of the Hemorrhoids. Also, the old Herbals say, ' 'tis hot and dry, and commend it as Diuretic, and useful in the Jaundice, and Dropsy, but 'tis seldom used by Physicians in these days, inwardly. Rags of all sorts laid upon Land, every it greatly, one load going as far as ten of Cowdung, as 'tis affirmed; for reasons not fit here. In the Shops. Semen lini, or Linseed, and Oleum lini, or ●ins●ed-Oyl, both which, and their Virtues and Uses are well known. They digest, mollify, suppu●at● and ease pain, being hot in the first Degree, and temperate in the rest. Linseed smells rancid, and ●s mucilaginous, used much in Poultices to discuss, or mollify ●ot Tumours; and the Oil also, and to extend shrunk Sinews, and sometimes ordered in ●lysters in the Colic, and inwardly in Pleuretick ●o●ghs: but I fancy it not inwardly. ●aper has some use also in Physic, for the pieces ●● it lighted in a Room, relieve Women in Hysterical fits (if they receive the fume of it) as many ●●mes they are, by any disagreeable smell. Lemery th●t honest and ingenious Chemist, draws an Oil a●d Spirit from Paper, the Oil he commends in Deafness, being put into the Ear, with a little Cotton, and in the Toothache. The Spirit rectified, is an Aperitive and Diuretic. So to conclude, The Wisdom of the Almighty, is wonderfully to be admired, and contemplated, in the production of this Vegetable 〈◊〉 so many ways useful to Mankind, tho' little used in Physic. Garlic. Numb. 11. 3. N. K. D. P. Allium. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Besides the ●ll●um S●tivum, or the common Garlic, I 〈◊〉 only mention the Silvestre, wild, or Crowgarlick, and the Allium Ursi●um, sive latifolium, Ramsons; as being well known, leaving the Mountain, as Clusius hath it, and the Turkey Garlic. Garlic is propagated by its Cloves, (as well as by its Seed) set in the Spring, and is well known at the Mouth of him that hath eaten it. Virtues and Uses. Garlic is an Herb of Mars, hot and dry in the fourth Degree, has an acrid taste, and abounds with a volatile Salt, raiseth Blisters, if applied to the Skin. Galen calls it Theriaca Rusticorum, because 'tis good against Infection, and the Plague, resists Poison, and venomous bitings, used in Colds, and stoppages of the Breast and Breath, for which Distempers the Countryman eats it, as also to warm the Stomach and help digestion; but let those that use it so familiarly, remember, all vehement hot things not only offend the Brain, but are fuel to the fire in hot and choleric Constitutions, engendering sharp and naughty Blood, and attenuating the humour in melancholic temperaments, thereby inciting ireful Passions in the one, and fanciful Chimeras in the other part of the Body. The wild Garlic and Ramsons, are much of the like nature▪ the last being often eaten in the Spring by labouring Men, with Bread and ●utter, and other things. In the Shop●▪ ●yr d● Allio, or the Syrup of Garlic, tho' not appointed in the London Pharm●●op●ia, is kept in many Shops, as being excellent in rotten Coughs, Raucedo's, in the beginning of Consumptions and Dropsies, especially of the Breast, in Convulsive Asthmas, and Chin-Coug●s, and Worm's. The best Receipt is, ℟ Garlick stripped from the skins, ten or twelve cloves slice●; A●is●d bruised half an ounce, Ella●ampane sli●ed, thre●●r●●hm●; Liquorish, two drachms; infuse three or four days in a pint and a half of Spirit of Wine (or best Brandy). close stopped, and warm, in B. M. or warm Emberss; strain it clear and hot into a Silver Dish standing on hot ●●●ls, wherein is one pound a●d a half of the s●●est. Sugar, give fire to the Liquor, stirring it whilst it burns, than strain it through a Woollen Strainer, and keep it for use. If it be strained well the first time, it will scarce need it the last. In Chin-Coughs, let the Sols of the feet of Children be rubbed with the following Ointment; which I have long prescribed with great success, and found it amongst Dr▪ Bates' Medicines, under the Title of Unguent Soleare. ℟. Roots of Garlic bruised, four ounces, Hog's grease eight ounces, boil them till the Juice of the Garlic is wasted, strain it, and add Saffron i● powder one drachm, Spirit of Salt two scrupl●s, mix them into an Ointment. This also hath eased the pain of the Piles, as the fume of Garlic doth on ●he hot coals In the hot Gout, I am assured by an experienced Surgeon, my Neighbour, That a Cataplasm framed of the cloves of Garlic and Houseleek beaten alone, hath dispersed the pain, and relieved the part. See Onions. Gophir-Wood. GEn. 6. 4. Signum Gophir. The Hebrew word Gophir is once, and only used in (this place of) S●●●pture, and is diversely understood; the Geneva Translation calls it Pinetree, the rabbin, Cedar; the Seven●, Square Timber; others say Fir, and more Cypress; but all agreed, it was a solid, light, agile Wood, that rottenness and Worms had no power on; if the word signify any special kind of Timber, no doubt Noah obeyed the Voice of God therein; tho' 'tis most pro●a●l●, (〈◊〉 〈◊〉 inquisition) that the ●●rk was built of Cedar-w●●d: for so Sir Walter Raleigh and many of our modern Commentators opine. Gourds. Wild Gourd. 2 K. 4. 39 Jon. 4. 6, 10. N. K. D. P. Colocynthidum agrestium▪ Rici●um. Jun & Tr. Vulg Cucurbita, Gourds are of the Cucumer-Family, of which see more under that Plant. They are raised in the Gardens, as Cucumbers are, in these cold Regions: But the wild bitter Gourd groweth in pain, Italy, Egypt, and other hot Countries, and its Fruit or Gourd called Colocynthis, or Coloquintida, is brought us only for its Medical use. Virtues and Uses. This Coloquintida, or bitter Apple, as the Vulgar call it, is extremely bitter, as he that powders it can well tell, being hot and dry in the third Degree, it purges violently Phlegm and other viscous humours; it consists of a volatile subtle dangerous Salt, which procure strong Colliquations, and Corrosions of the Ventricle and Guts, by Hypercatharsis, or over-purging. Yet nothing more frequent among the Countrypeople, than a pennyworth or two of bitter Apple, to purge them, accounting that the best Physic, (poor ignorant Creatures) which gives the most Stools, but it hath purged many into their Graves, and others into languishing Disease's, to my knowledge; Decemb. 1st 1674. I was sent for to a Countryman in Salt near Hopton-Heath, who was swelled like a Barrel, upon the taking of this pernicious Apple, given him by his Wife, which could never be brought to work upward nor downward, but in few hours it killed him; more ill accidents, and mortifical effects of a later date, occasioned by this corrosive and wild Fruit, I could here denote; but where, or by whom committed and suffered, except I had the consent of them, to whom I profess to own much respect for their (since) Kindness and Favours, the Reader must excuse me; and remember the old saying, Foelix quem— happy is he, whom other men's failings and dangers do make to beware. But tho' this Fruit be so exceeding perilous in the Apple itself, and but little better in the Troc●-Alhandle, as they are commonly prepared, yet exceeding useful and safe is the Cathartick Extract thereof, made with distilled Vinegar, impregnated with Sal Tartari Sennerti, which Menstruum fixeth in a great manner, the malignant volatility, which predominates in this Fruit, whereas Spirit of Wine (which is the usual Menstruum) doth rarefie and subtilise its volatile Sulphurous Salt, carrying it into the very Veins and Arteries, whence it attracts the best defecated and Spirituous Blood. Also some, as I have often with good effect, advice the infusion of this Fruit in the Urine of a healthful young Man, all night or longer, according to Riverius, before it is used▪ and Dr. Grew saith, The great Cathartic● power of Colocynthis lieth not so in an Alcaly, as an Acid, therefore the best corre●ors, or refractors of the force of this purging fruit, are some kind of Alkalies, as particularly that of Urine. In the Shops. Coloquintida. Trochisci Athandle. Pilex duobus. The Troches are prepared by some apothecary's (different from the Dispensatory) by three pulverizations, as often beating it up when dried, with the same Menstruum of Vinegar abovesaid; without the pretended Correction of it by the addition of Aromatical substances, and Gum Tragacanth, which Troches certainly are the safest and best, and most fit to prepare the highly renowned Cathartick Tincture, which is judged to be Rullandus his Spir. vitae deauratus. The Pil. ex duobus required to be refined, and more elaborately prepared, by the noble Art of the Pharmaco-Chymist. These Medicines are like Swords, not to be trusted in Madman's hands, but require the management of a discerning and expert Artist, therefore I'll leave their further Virtues, Uses and Doses, to such an one. Grapes. GEn. 40. 10, 11. and in one or two and thirty Chapters more: Wa. Botrus. For the Texts, where named, also for the difference, uses, and virtues of Grapes, see Vine. Grass. HErba tenera is often used in Scripture by Jun. & Tr. comprehending all kind of tender Herbs, and edible Grass, which is eaten or cut for the use of Man or Beast; and the word Grass in our Translation, specifying no particular sort, as Dog-grass, Panick-grass, Gramen Parnassi, with abundance more kinds, I shall leave it as I found it. Hasel-Tree. Gen. 30. 37. N. K. D. P. Corylus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. There are many sorts of Nuts, differing in magnitude, figure, colour, etc. the common wild Hazel Nut-Tree is called besides Corylus, Nux tenuis, or parva, to distinguish it from Nux juglans, or Walnut-tree; the Fillberd is Nux Avellana, ● Avellina, or Abella, a Town in Campania antiqua, the most fruitful Province in Naples, if not in Itally, now called Terra di lavoro, which abounded with Nuts. Witch-Hasel is a kind of Elm. These Trees are well known, the common Hazel or Nut-tree growing in most Wo●ds, and Hedges, the Fillberd and Walnuts are manured in many Gardens and Orchards. Virtues and Uses. The small Nut and Fillberd, are reckoned under Mercury, because it may be through his nimbleness, he could skip from bough to bough to preserve them. But Walnuts (the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Jupiter's Nut, tho' some say it's a Chestnut) is (as it is fitting it should, if a Nut for a God) under the Sun. The v●lgar mean Hasel-Tree, was beyond all other uses exalted, (no● in making Hurdles to enfold our innocent Sheep, an Emblem of the Church) when its Rods or Branches were interwoven upon Stakes sixth in the ground, to make the Walks of one of the first Christian Oratories in the World, viz. at that venerable Fabric at Glastenbury, founded, as sto 〈…〉, by Joseph of Arimathea. The shells and read skin on Fillberds, bind, and are excellent in Fluxes▪ the Kernels, ordered as Almond-Milk, strengthen the Lungs, and help an old Cough: Nuts whilst green, or fresh, are sweet and loosen the Belly; when dry, are cold, dry and bind, of a terrene substance, clogging the Stomach, slowly passing through the Belly, yet probably do absorbe the noxious juices, and superfluous moisture of great Drinkers, being an excellent Junket instead of Tobacco in their compotating humours. Walnuts dry, are hot and dry, the Oil drawn as Oil of Almonds, is a Cosmetick. These Kernels, and green Bark or Husk, are Alexipharmacal, the Husks being a chief Ingredient in Treacle-Water distilled. And King Mithridates▪ s Medicine against Poison, Plague, and Pestilential Fevers, was two dry walnuts, two Figs, twenty Leaves of Rue, beaten with a few corns of Salt, and eaten fasting. In the Shops. Ol. Avellanarum per Expressionem. Aq. Juglandium composita, or Wall-Nut-Water compound. This Water seems to be invented by the College, to facilitate and procure Vomiting, and to that end may be mixed with Vomits; it sends clammy Phlegm and Choler from the Stomach, and adjacent parts, and opens Obstructions thereof: it is good in the Green-sickness, Surfeits, and Aguish Maladies, and Epilepsies arising from the consent of the Stomach, and Pestilence. Honey of Nuts Diacaryon, or Dianucum may be mixed in Vomits, or given in the cases with the Water. Rulandus' Ol. lign. Heraclei, with which he destroyed Worms, and did other great Cures, prising it as a great Arcanum, or Nostrum, as they are now termed, is concluded by some to be the Oil of Haselwood; (others say of Box) for the Fillberd is called, by some Authors, Nux Heracleoticae, or Nux Pontica, being first transplanted from the City Heraclea, in the Province of Pontus in Asia minor, thence to Greece, and so came into Avellina or Abella as abovesaid. And Dr. Bates judged it, to be the Oil of this Wood, as it appears in his Pharmacopoeia, where also you have Emulsio de Avellanis. Hemlock. Hos. 10. 4. Amos 6. 12. N. K. D. P. Cicutae. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. 'Tis known to most, being called also Kex, or Kedlock: Cicutaria palustris, is the wild Water-Hemlock. It grows by Ditches sides, shady places, and stinking fat soils; and flowers and seeds in July, or rather later. Virtues and Uses. It's unsavoury, and stinks like Saturn, being cold in the fourth Degree, accounted among the Narcoticks, and poisonous Vegetables by some of the Ancients; who never gave it inwardly, though Storks, say Naturalists, feed on it: It is outwardly used in pains, mightily discussing hard Tumours, Ganglions; and the Leaves and Roots (or the Juice of it) is exceeding good in Pultisses in all hot Tumours, and Inflammations, St. Anthony's Fire, painful Gouts, assuaging any violent pain, by its cold stupefying quality; I have used the Juice safely in Collyriums, in Ophthalmia's, and beaten up with Bay-salt, fine bowl to a Pultiss, and applied to the wrist, is a common and tried Medicine by many old Women, to cure the Pin and Web in the Eye. A Fomentation of it hath cured a Pri●pismus; if mistaken and eaten, (the Roots being alike) for Madneps or wild Cicely, which is the Cicutaria vulgaris, or for Parsnips, it is necessary to Vomit, and take an Antidote. In the Shops. Emplastrum è cicuta cum Ammoniaco, or the Plaster of Hemlock with the Gum Ammoniack. This Plaster is certainly the most excellent of all Spleen-Plasters, excellent in painful Cancers, Scirrhous Tumours and dolorous Nodes, in all which, and more cases, I have often experienced it. Dr. Bowle's Secret, imparted by Mr. Ray; Pulu. Radicum ad grana 20 in febribus malignis vel quartana ante paroxysmum exhibitus omnibus, quae Ego unquam expertus sum, Diaphoreticis antecellit. Not fit for vulgar knowledge, jest any one should prejudice themselves by it. In swell of the Kings-Evil, See Emplast. ad Strumas, Batei. Hyssop. Exod. 12. 22. Leu. 14. 4, 52. Numb. 19 6, 18. 1 Kings 4. 33. Psal 51. 7. Jo. 19 29. Heb. 9 19 N. K. D. P. Hissopus is the Greek and Latin Name, and so the Germane, French, Spaniards, and Italians call it. The old Herbalists make different kinds, by the Flowers and Leaves, only altered, I believe, by the Soil and Clime. Hyssop groweth in most Gardens, and the Gratiola or Hedge-Hyssop, is nursed in some Physick-Gardens, though it grows wild in moist places. And some make two or three sorts of it, according to the breadth and narrowness of the Leaves. Virtues and Uses. Hyssop belongs to the benevolent Planet Jupiter, it is bitterish, hot and dry in almost the third Degree, well known to be a cleansing and opening Pectoral, by those that use the distilled Water, and Syrup for Coughs, Hoarseness, and Rheumatic Distillations. Mr. Lavers the Eminent Bonesetter in Somersetshire, told me as a great Secret, in Bristol, That green Hyssop beaten into a Conserve with a little Sugar, and applied to a fresh Wound, would presently stop the Blood. Hedge-Hyssop is like Mars, a violent purger of Choler and aquaeous humours, working both by Stool and Vomit, not safely or vulgarly used, except purefied and refined by the Spagyric Art. Grati●la and Sold●nella are seldom used by themselves in this refining Age, neither are any curious and very efficacious Medicines, prepared of those Simples, they are usually mixed with other Hydragogues, and chief are Ingredients in compounded Drinks and Apozems, saith the Famous Willis. Schroder speaks of the Inspissated Juice of Gratiola, Dose one scruple adʒ●ss. in Dropsies and yellow Jaundice. In the Shops. the dry Herb. Hyssop-Water and Syrup of the Juice of Hyssop, and Syrup of Hyssop Compound. These are all much used in Infirmities of the Breast and Lungs, only it ought to be remembered, that Hyssop is a hot Herb, acrid and Aromatic, and therefore to be left out in Pectoral Decoctions, and other Medicines, where the Patient is Feverish, or inclined to a Hectic. There seems a manifest absurdity in the Modus f●ciendi of the Compound-Syrup; the volatile part of the Roots and Herbs, is lost in the Decoction, the Gum, Fruits, and Seeds tender it clammy, and mucilaginous: as he that Clarifies it shall found; and as it can never be well made, according to that prescription Pharmacop. ●ond. so it cannot have the Virtues which are attributed to it: In cold Diseases of the Breast, to help to attenuate, and cleanse the crass and viscous matter, which doth obstruct it with viscous and incrassating Ingredients, more like to procure Obstructions, is absurd. Therefore the true and ingenious Apothecary knows how to rectify the Methodus ●●endis, by leaving out the clammy Ingredients, and adding some Ground-Ivy, Hedge-Mustard, or other proper Ingredients in their stead. Otherwise it were much better to use the simple Syrup of the Juice, as I do always, in the place of it, or some other. For (admired therefore be the great Creator) the Materia Medica is large and plentiful; and he is no Real, nor Legitimate Physician, that is not ex abundanti of the same, (methodised and digested so in his Judgement and Memory, as to be) able ex tempore, (and without flying to his Books and Manuscripss, as I have seen some do) to prescribe such Medicines as are appropriated, answerable, and indicated, to the I●dicantia of Diseases: For since the power of Nature and Skill may reach much farther, than many distrustful, lazy, and timorous Men have imagined, it will not be charitable to rely too much upon the Prognostics, even of Famous Writers, when they tell us. That such and such Diseases, or Patients in such and such Conditions, (as one saith) cannot possibly be cured. But rather to follow the sober Council of Celsus, Oportet (saith he) ubi aliquid non respondet, non tanti●putare Authorem quanti aegram, & experiri aliud atque aliud. Where a Medicine or Prescription answers not, we ought not so much to esteem the Author and his Medicines, as the Patient, and to try somewhat farther and farther. juniper-tree. Juniper Roots. 1 Kings 19 4, 5. Job 30. 4. Psal. 120. 4. N. K. D. P. Juniperus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Juniper, ● Junis & Pario, quia novelloes, & juniores fructus parit, Antiquis maturescentibus. There is a Mayor and a Minor Juniper-Tree, grow on the Alpss, and other Countries; and Iseland near Norway, is said to yield neither Corn nor Trees, except Juniper only: The Juniperus Alpina Minor, or low Mountain Juniper, grows on Snowdon-Hills in Wales, and on the Hills in Westmoreland, where 'tis called avin, and there they give the Decoction of it to kill the Bots and Grubs in Horses. Thou this Vegetable is a tall Tree in Foreign parts, yet here in England▪ it is a low Shrub, spreading near the ground, with Leaves much like Furz, of a bluish-green-colour, but not so sharp as Furz, or Gorse, and continued all the year: The Flowers are so small, that I could scarce discern their colour, which seemeth yellow by the meal or dust that falleth from them; after which, the small green Berries come not to a full ripeness or blackness (known by their sweet, bitterish, and perfuming taste) until the Sun hath elixyrated them by two annual visits, they continuing green two Summers and one Winter, and aught to be gathered in September; always finding green Berries on this Shrub, when you gather the smooth blacks) the Sun being in the Sign Virgo. It is planted in some Gardens, and is found in some Countries of England, upon divers Woody Hills, Commons, and Parks, as in the Woolands in Wor●estershire, not far of Hewel-Grange, and F●cknam: Betwixt Bristol and Bath, in that Road, from Lawford ●s- Gate; on the Chalk-Hills in Oxfordshire and Buckingham-shire; on Juniper-Hills near Cambridge; where also grows the famous Lunaria Minor, as the most Ingenious Gent. and Botanist, Mr. Harding, of Jesus-College, informed me. Virtues and Uses. This Balsamic Solar Shrub yields such excellent and useful Remedies, that it deserves no common nor mean eulogies. It hath an Aromatic, Gummous and Oleous smell, with a bitterish Astringency if chewed in the Mouth, both in its Wood and Leaves. The Ashes are excellent made into a Lie, in Dropsies. See under Beans. The Wood of Juniper dries, as Sassafras; and Scaliger denoteth it to be in great esteem for a Specific Antevenereal among the Africans; and ●lat●rus affirms, He cured many poor Gallican Patients with it; and 'tis by some ordered in drying Drinks to strengthen the Brain and G●nus Nerv sum in Palsies, Epilepsy, Gout, Catarrhs. And Silvius de la Boe much used it in Dropsies of the Breast, Jaundice, bilious Diarrhea, and other cases: Rasped in Cucup●is, quilted Caps, Sacculets. And the Ashes of Juni●er are good to rub Scorbutical Gums, and cleanse the Teeth, as I saw the good effects of it in Bristol. The Berries have an internal substance, of a Balsamic and viscous consistence, containing small Grains or Seeds, which masticated, yield a sweet Balsamic taste, with no unpleasant bitterness, arising from a subtle Sulphur and volatile Salt, in which two consist the excellency of these Berries, which are reckoned hot in the third Degree, and dry in the second Degree, do attenuate and dissipate in general; are in particular, a great Diuretic, Sudorific, and Alexiterick, used in Distempers of the Womb, dissipate flatus in the Hypochondriack Passion, in the Colic, and Convulsive Asthma, bravely dissolve tartarous slimy substances, and Gravel; driving them forth of the Kidneys and Bladder; being much used in Diet-drinks, and Apozems. The Bark of Juniper is thin, and chaps in hot Regions, from whence flows the Rezin or Gum Juniperi, (most probably from the Cedar-Juniper) of which some make Varnish, by dissolution in linseed-oil; Of old this Gum was used to preserve Parchments and Manuscripts, with other Books. It is excellent against the Defluxions of the Brain, and is an Ingredient in Suffi●● or Fumigations, and Perfumes (used also as the Wood rasped) especially in cold affects of the Nerves, vid. Scarsius de Junipero. In the Shops. Baccae Juniperi, or Juniper-●erries and Ol. chym. Juniperi, or the Chymicaloyl of Juniper Berries, and Sal. Juniperi, or Salt of Juniper. It may be admired our Dispensatories afford not more standing Preparations of such an efficacious Vegetable, but other Authors supply its deficiency, as the Elix. Juniperinum▪ Extractum▪ Gummosum in Pharmacop. Quercitani. And the simple Extract of the Berries, which is the Treacle of the Germane, and instead of Honey, receiveth the Powders in the famous Orvietan-Antidote, called Electuar. Orvietanum. The Aetherial Oil of the Berries, is excellent in the Colic, the Salt made from calcined Ashes, is an Ingredient in that much used Powder, called pulvis Ari compos. But the best Medicine this Vegetable yields us, through the help of the Chemical Art▪ is the Spirit, which penetrates as in a moment the whole Body, as is evident, in giving the first Urinal, made after a small Dose, the smell of Orris or Vicl●ts. The Dose is from thirty to a hundred Drops, in Broth, White Wine, or its own Spirituous Water which is drawn at the same time as the Oil. But this Spirit and Water is much more exalted and invigorated with some four or five drops of its Oil, (made into an Eleosaccharum with Sugar, so that it may the better dissolve and commix in the Dose. But (in gratiam Tyronum, and others, who are not skilled in, or else disgust and relish not Spagyric Preparations) I shall set down an Electuary kept as a Nostrum, for the use of Dr. ●. sometime an Eminent Physician in the City of Worcester, in some of the Shops there. ℟. Bac●. Junip●r▪ oped. lb ij cont●nd. oped. & Infund. in A. F. lb iiij, per 24 hor. deinde coq. ad lb ss. (and if than pulped, it were certainly better) tunc ●dde S●cchar albis. lb i●. & coq. ad consistent. Electuar. cui add z. z. ʒij. Cal. Aromat. Cubebar. aa. ℥ ss. in puluere, & f. El●●●ar. It is very ●●si● to apply, to each of these precited Remedies, the●r proper Virtue, for it is common to all, since they ar● extracted, and made from this Balsamic Shrub Juniper▪ which contained them. To bring away the Afterbirth, give about thirty drop●, or any number between 25. and ●5 of good essential Oil of Juniper in a good draught of any convenient Vehicle. This is in the little Book of (that bull● of Learning) Mr. ●oyle's, called Medicinal Experiments: Ma●e an El●o-Sac●harum, with the O●l (●s I have showed how, in this Book) so that it may the better dissolve. Note▪ g●ther the Berries when the Sun is in Virgo, they are used ●● Coffee or Tea in Lapland, and other Northern parts, and adored almost. Leeks. Numb. 11. 5. N. K. D. P. Porrum. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Porrum Capitatum, is the set or headed Leek. Porrum sectile is the cut or unset Leek; which differ not in Genus, but only by culture, that being transplanted in Autumn and this sown in the Spring. Chives or Cives, called Scoenoprason, belong to the wild Leeks, yet thrive greatly in our Gardens, when cut, and endure the coldest Winter. Virtues and Uses. Leeks are hot and dry in the 3 deg. like Mars their Captain, from whom they infuse great courage and valour into the Welshmen, especially on St. Taffy's day. This is a Culinary Herb, and seldom mentioned in the Matter of Physic, draws near to Garlic and Onions in virtues and vices; offends through its heat, the Head and Eyes, except boil▪d and eaten with cooling Herbs, cause and increase bad Blood, yet attenuate, open the Breast, and are Diuretic: Outwardly they help the noise of the Ears, and mitigate and discuss tumid and painful Hemorrhoids, either boiled to a pultiss, or fried with Butter, or the green Blade applied, as once I knew it to great advantage, in the Piles. The most ancient Egyptians, whose Religion was the worst of Gentilism, attributed divi●e Honour among other Creatures to Leeks, Garlick and Onions, for which they were publicly scorned by the Pens of the Poets. Porrum & caepe nefas— Thus Englished. To by't an Onion or a Leek is more Than deadly Sin. The Numen they adore, Grows in their Gardens. And who doth not know What monstrous shapes for Gods in Egypt go! As well as the Cambro-britains' (to whom I am related) are said to love Leeks, yet I know not of any in all my Travels among them, that is a mere Glutton in eating, or overmuch delights in them; which if I did, he should change his ancient Name, for Nero the bloody Emperor, who being a Glutton in devouring Leeks, was in scorn nicknamed Porrophagus. Lentils. Gen. 25. 34. 2 Sam. 17. 28. and 23. 11. Ezek. 4. 9 N. K. D. P. Lens, Lenticula 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Lentils are a kind of Pulse, of which there is a Mayor and a Minor sort, which are ma●ur'd in the fields beyond Sea, and are cultivated in some places in England, for Fo●der instead of Fitches, and are called Tills, not differing much from wild Fitches or Tares. having little brownish Flowers mixed with white, which do produce a small flatCod, containing brown or white Seed. The Lens Minor, Mr. Ray saith, are sown in the fields in Cambridge and , alone, and mixed with Barley. The Lens Palustris, is Duck meat, or Water-Lentils, called also Lenticula aquatica, well known to grow in Ponds, Lakes, Ditches, and standing Waters, being in its freshest Beauty in the beginning of the year. Dills or Lentils are sowed at Weeford in this County. Virtues and Uses. Lentils I suppose, being so near related to Fitches and that large Tribe, must with them be governed by ill natured Saturn: They are temperate as to heat and cold, yet dry, say our old Herbals, in the second Degree, and a stringent. Being husked (they loose their binding virtue) and boiled, do loosen the Body, are never used inwardly in these days, and Galen and the old Authors say, They are hard of digestion, breed Atra Bilis, Leprosy, and Cankers. Mr. Ray saith, They dull the Sight, and are an enemy to the Head and Genus Nervosum. Outwardly they may be used in Lotions, Fomentations and Caetaplasms in Maladies, where Indications call for such qualified Plants. See Fitches, Tares. Ducks-meat is crud and watery, cold and moist in the second Degree, used in all Inflammations, St. Anthony's Fire, Erysipela's alone, or made into a Pultiss with Barley-meal, or with Wheat-flour, in hot Tumours and Phlegmons. Mathi●l. saith, The distilled Water cools inward Inflammations, and redness of the Eyes. And Mr. Ray saith, Dr. Bates communicated it is him, as an infallible Secret in the Jaundice, being infused in White Wine and drank for nine days, but 'tis not remarked in the Pharmacop. Batean. as I can found. It may alloy an inflamed Sulphurous Blood, in which Choler prevails, and often gives a Jaundice colour, but not cure, the Jaundice proceeding from obstruction, as Sir J. F. truly and rationally concludes. Being once called to a Patient, far from better Medicines, I was forced to frame a Cataplasm of Ducks-meat, Paeans powdered to Meal, and a little Vinegar, which applied, strangely pacified and eased an Inflammation of the Penis and Priapism. Ligit-Aloes. Numb. 24. 6. N. K. D. P. Santalus. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Xyloaloes. Agallochum 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Wood of Aloes is a precious odoriferous Wood brought ou● Druggist's from the Indieses. Bitterish, Resinous, Dense, Ponderous, with Nigro-purpureous, and Cineritious Veins, exudating a Balsamic Aromatic Liquor, and Fume, if held near the Fire or Candle. The best sort is of high esteem amongst the Princes of India, and said to have been worth its weight in Silver, in Camboia, a Province in the East-indieses, and there called Calumba, Calumbart. A second sort not so good, is there called Agula, and by avicen, Agallagen, and is most in use in our Shops, Virtues and Uses. By reason of the Noble and Great Virtues it doth possess. the Germane give it the Name of Lignum Paradisi, or Wood of Paradise (it's counted hot and dry in the second Degree, refreshing the Vital and Animal Spirits, corroborating the Heart, Womb, and all the Viscera, especially the Brain, and by its bitterness kills Worms, and is an excellent Perfume, being outwardly used in Cucuphis, Cordial Epithems, Pastilli Odorati, or Pomanders. In the Shops. 'Tis an Ingredient in several Cordial Powders, but there is no preparation denominated from it in the last Pharmacop●i●. Valerius Cordus has sp●c. Diaxyloaloes'. A●gelus Sala extracts the Resine of it with Rose-Water and Spirit of Wine. Quercetan with Waters of St. John's- Wort and Centaury, and accounts it a peculiar Remedy against the Worms. And many Pra●itioners use the Extract of it, as a great Cordial and Se●ret. Lilly. Lilies. 1 Kings 7. 19 22, 26. 2 Chr. 4 5. Cant. 2. 1, 2, 16. & 4. 5. & 5. 13. & 6. 2, 3. & 7. 2. Hos. 14. 5. Mat. 6. 28. Luke 12. 27. N. K. D P. lilium. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉: Potius Lilli●, quasi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, i e. valde mollia. There are Lilies of the Garden, Wild, Native, and Foreign, distinguished most by their Flowers, by the curious Florist, for Lilli● flores amabiles sunt. Those well known, are White Lilies, called lilium album seu common. Also Rosa Junonis, because as the Poets feign, After Hercules (Jupiter's Bastard by Alcmene) had secretly sucked Juno's Breast while she slept; her Milk flowed out plentifully, some whereof sprinkled that Circle in the Heavens, called Via Lactea, or Galaxia, Milky way, or by some, Watling-street; and some fell on the Earth, and produced the lovely Lilly. Read Lilies, called lilium Rubrum, besides other names by the old Herbarists, Dodonaeus and Baptist. ●orta think it the Hi●cynthus and Cosmanda●os of the Poets. Ovid Met. lib. 10. feigns it Originated from the Blood of the Boy Hiacynthus, which perished playing with Apollo, who for his sake, did his mournful sighs in Ai Ai, in this Flower. The most useful of the wild sorts, (mentioned also in Cant. as well as the Garden) is first, the Lily of the Valley, known by the name of lilium convallium, or May-Lilly flowering in May, (the former in June;) this hath a small stalk, and small white flowers, like little Bells, with turned edges, of a pleasant smell, after which come small read Berries▪ the Root is small, and creeps abroad in the Earth. I give this short Description, to encourage our Country Apothecaries, to keep the Conserve of this Cephalick Vegetable in their Shops. There is a read sort also, not used. Secondly, the Water-lilies, called Nymphaea▪ both in Latin and Greek, and Nenuphar by the Arabians, bearing a white flower, with yellow thr●ms in the middle, is well known to the Apothecary's Boys, who gather them in standing Waters, and sides of slow Rivers, in the flowering time of May or June, for the uses of the Shop. Besides this white, the Nymphaea Flore luteo with a yellow flower, is not much used. Virtues and Uses The Garden Lilies are said to be under the Moon, moderately hot, Mucilaginous and Bitterish, and smell fainty; more used outwardly, than inwardly, every Female Surgeon, and Dame of a Family, knowing, how to make a Pultiss with the Roots, to Ripen and draw a Whitloe, Felon or Impost, using at the same time, a little of the Oil of the Flowers, which caseth Pain and Moll●fies. The Lily of the Valley is Mercury's Herb, the Flowers have an Aromatic Odour, and a sharp bitterish Gust; for making some Sneezing Powder of them, a while since, I often toyed them; they are Car●iack, and a great Cephalick, and prescribed by practical Authors▪ as Willis, in Apoplexies, Palsies, and Diseases arising from the Brain and Genus Nervosum; as the Gout, Obliviousness, and in Constitutions, rather Cold than Hot; these Flowers being hot and dry in the 2 Degree. Water Lilies are under the Moon, say some Astrological Artist, under Venus say others; and so the Old Authors tells us, these Flowers are Cold and Moist; and as such most Practitioners have prescribed them in Favours, Frenzies, Fluxes, Gonorrhea's, heat of Kidneys; and whereas others, that depend more upon the Demonstration of their Senses, and Activity of Vegetative Principles, conclude it not so Cold, as 'tis reputed. In the Shops 1. Oil of White Lilies. 2. Cons. Flor. lil▪ ●●nv●ll. or Conserve of the Flowers of the ●illy of the Valley. 3. And the Water of the same. or Aq. Flor. Nymph▪ or the simple Water of the Flowers of Water Lilies. 5. The Syrup of the same simple. 6. The Syrup of the compounded. 7. The Conserve of the same. 8. O● Nenupha●inae, of Water Lilies. I know the Oil of Lilies is a very proper thing for Midwife's and other good Women, to have by them but how the Root boiled and Drunk, should help speedy Delivery, and expel the after Birth I cannot conceive, being accounted, cold and binding, and used in Fluxes, Gonorrheas, Dysury, etc. Nocturnal Pollutions, Haemoptys●, in all which and more Cas●●, the simple Syrup, and compound also are very serviceable to Physicians, and their Patient's. The Generality of whom, (if I may a little digress) when once they are persuaded or forced to fly unto a Physician, for help, do like Asa King of Juda rely more on the Medicines, and the Physician than on God, for which he was reprehended by the Prophet. A fit caution to be observed by my Reader and all Men. It is reported by Suidas (Greg-T●olos. To 2 Lib. 28. Cap. 7. speaking of Ezekiah) that there was a great Book of old, of King Solomon's Writing▪ which contained Medicines, against all Diseases, and lay sti●l open, as they came into the Temple. But Ezekiah King of Jerusalem, caused it to be taken away, because it made the people secure, and to neglect their Duties i● calling, and relying on God, out of a confidence's of those Remedies. Minutius that worthy Consul of Rome, in an Oration he made to his Soldiers, was much offended with them, and taxed their ignorance, that in their Misery, they called more on him, than on God▪ A general fault, we all, (the best of us) are too apt to rely more on the means, than on the great El-shaddai, the All-sufficient: and the Speech of Minutius concerns us all in the Application. On the other hand, to pray alone, or rather to trust God and Nature, as the poor ignorant Vulgar; and too many others term it, and reject ordinary means, is to do like him in Aes●p, that lay on his back, when his Cart was stalled, and called aloud. Help, Hercules; but to little purpose, except as his Friend advised him, he whipped his Horses, and put shoulder to the Wheel: God work● by Means, as Christ cured the Eli●d man wi●h Salve made of Clay and Spittle: The Lord hath created Medicines on the Earth, and of such doth the Apothecary make his Confections, and he that is wise will not abhor them. Eccles. 38. And the same God hath created Physicians, to whom he hath given Knowledge and Skill, that he might be glorified in his wondrous Works. ●erse 6. They are his immediate Ministers, who are the Dispenser's of such Treasures, as Medicines of the Earth, and to be honoured for Necessity's sake; with such doth he heal Men, being God's hand, as one calls them, to take away Pains; therefore when thou hast need of him, let him not departed from thee, for an hour may come, that their Medicines may have good success. Verse 7. 13. And be so wise, as as to be ruled by him, and vary not a tittle from his Rules. For without this exact obedience, and thy Nurses due Attendance, thou expectest a Cure invain. Mallows. Job. 30. 4. N. K. D. P. Herbae Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Malvae 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Mallows, it may be, from its mollifying virtue, but some will have it Malva, from the Hebrews, who call it Malluach, for Melach, doth signify Salt; and this succous Vegetable is chief found in old ruinous, salt Dunghill places, which abound with fat, and Terraqueous & Nitre-Saline Juices. Others will have it denominated from the Chaldee, Malluach, leaving out the guttural letters, c●. as Rabbi David Kim●i denotes it. Malva hortensis is the Hollyock, is Garden-Mallows, called also Malva Arborea, or Tree-Mallows growing tall. Common or wild Mallows, called Malva vulgaris, seu Sylvestris. Marshmallows called Althaea, Bismalva, being twice as good as the common. French or Jews Mallows called Malochia, a Potherb in Egypt, Spain and other hot Regions, and is propagated in some curious Gardens with us; but seldom cometh to flower; there are other kinds, as Vervain Mallow, etc. but these are those that are well known, and commonly used. The Marshmallows so called from the Marshes, and Morish places, where they grow, but now are in most Physick-Gardens, the old Stalk dying at Winter, springing again at April or May, at which time the Roots are at the best to be used, for the standing Medicines in the shops. It is propagated by Stems or Slips. Virtues and Uses. Common Mallows are moderately hot and mo●st, and the Marshmallows are also hot, but drier than the rest, being all mucilaginous; I know no reason but that Mallows with us may be as excellent a Potherb as they are beyond Sea, but our Ignoramus's condemn it as a Weed, Horace could say,— Et gravi; Malva Salubres corpori. Mallows, especially the Marsh, by the mucilaginous substance are greatly profitable and helpful First in the Stone and other Diseases of the Reinss and ●●adder. Secondly, in Distempers of the Lungs, as Coughs, and salt Catarrhs. Thirdly in Fr●sions and sharp Fluxes of the Intestines, (the Decoction of the Roots, and macilage of the Seeds especially.) Lastly, outwardly to 〈◊〉 Tumours and give ease in Poultices. Some eat the tender Leaves and Stalks in the Spring, with Water-Cr●ss▪ ss, Mercury, Ne●les, Redleggs, Comphry tops, Leaves of 〈◊〉, and other Herbs, boiled and Cooked to a piece of (〈◊〉) Beef, a Dish I much delight in, and the tender Stalks Cooked like Asparagus or Sperage, are hardly distinguished from it, only it bur●s not the Throat as Sperage doth. The first tenderils of Hops may be so Cooked, and pass for a Bastard Sperage. In the Shops. Mallows and Marsh-mallows dried, and are two of the five Emollient Herbs, nominated in our Dispensatories, and are used frequently in Glisters, Baths, and Fomentations, in the aforesaid cases. The simple destilled Water of Mallows or Marsh-Millows. The Syrup of Marsh-Mallows, or Althaea; and the Vnguentum. Dialthea, a well known, and much used Ointment. The Pulvis Dialthea, inserted by the College in the last Edition, and Correction of their Pharm●copoeia. In the Stone or Gravel, or in such Constitutions Inclining to the same; I have often known one ounce of the Syrup taken in six or eight ounces of ●irc●-Water (which flows from the Tree) drank for a month or six weeks, for a morning's draught in the Spring time, not only for preventions sake, but to carry of Gravel and Stones. For this Syrup, and the Pulvis Dialthea, are chief appropriated to such Diseases. The Dose of the Powder may be a ʒss. adʒ j But certainly the Virtues of this useful Syrup might be more exalted, if the modus faciendi were ordained in a more refined and Spagyric method. Saccharum Dial●hae, or Sugar of Marsh-mallows, is much used (and constantly kept in a great Practical Shop) by two Eminent Doctors in Consumptions, etc. in a Neighbouring Country, not here to be named. It is made with a strong Decoction of the Roo●s and Sugar, bo●●ed to the consistence of Tablets, and so carried about one, and familiarly used to dissolve in the Mouth, or with Aq. lactis cum her●is p●ctoralibus & limacibus. Vid. Tabul. Dialthaeae. B. 〈◊〉. Mandrakes. Gen. 30. 14, 15, 16. Cant. 7. 13. N. K. D. P. Flores Amabiles. Jun. & 〈◊〉 Mandragora Lat & Gr. Terrae Malum. 〈…〉 morphos. Herb. Dudaim. Mandrakes naturally grow in Countries bordering on the Medeterranean-Sea, in Spain, Italy, and by all Authors are reckoned Male and Female. Dioscorides tells us, 'Twas called Circea, because Circe (which the Poets feign to be the Daughter of Sol and Persis) an Enchantress, expert in Herbs, used it as a Tempting-Powder in amorous concerns. Mandrake's are nursed up in some well managed Gardens with us, by Seed, tho' they may be propagated from particles of the Roots. The Male, or Mandragora Mas, is the most common, having a great black Root, tho' white within, with interwoven and circumplicated Coats, or Branches, whence arise many large Leaves, lodging on the ground, and than on a tender Stalk, divers pale green Flowers, consisting of five round Leaves apiece which produce a Husk, which when ripe (in July) contains a golden coloured Fruit as big as a Pear-Maine, which yields a whitish flat Seed. which affects the Nose with a Narcotick Stuffing Odour: The Female is every way smaller, and more rarely raised, flowering not till August, therefore seldom yields a perfect Fruit or Apple. Virtues and Uses. By its ill hogo and foetid scent, it should be influenced by Saturn, being cold in the third Degree, if not in the fourth, of a strong Narcotick and Soporiferous nature, never used inwardly that I know of: Leu. Lem●ius tells us, How being sat in his Study, a sudden drowsiness seized him, caused by a Mandrake-Apple that he had laid on a Shelf. And it passeth in the old Herbals, for one of the cold poisonous Class, with the Nap●llis, or Wolfe-banes, Hen-bane, etc. I shall only reflect upon two Errors concerning this much talked of Vegetable; the first is, that it being carried about one, it procures Love, and fertility, instead of Sterility, for which reason, some have imagined, Rachel desired her Sister's Mandrakes, as the Text is translated: but let them consider, young R●uben brought home ●lores amabiles, amiable and odoriferrous Flowers, for so the Hebrew word in Cant. 7. 13. imports; but in these Flowerr there is no such delectable odor, moreover we do not found she conceived thereupon: But grant it the Flowers of Mandrakes, and that they should stir up Venery, and 'cause a tickling in the Skin, as Opium, and others of that nature are said to do, and yet stupefy the Members, and lay them asleep, which is not without admiration; yet different Countries and Climes vary the nature of Vegetables, and also give different qualities and substances, as cold, which may 'cause stupidity, and hot, which may 'cause a tickling in the skin: or else we may say, it excites Venery accidentally by t●mperating the excessive heat of the ●o●●, which is an enemy to Venus: And Avicen and others say, The Apples and Seeds refrigerate a hot Matrix and therefore some have absolutely concluded. That Rachel desired them for her hot and dry Body, the supposed cause of her Barrenness But notwithstanding for any one positively to affirm, these lovely Flowers were Mandrakes (Apples as the Greek translates it) is too magi●●●● and singular an opinion; for whereas tho' some of th● Hebrew Interpreters expound the Hebrew word, which is lovely or amiable, to be Mandrakes, yet others of them say, 'tis Indicum gelseminum, and others the Violet Flowers, or Lilies; which have a far more fragrant smell than Mandrakes; and lastly, some expound it Phil●ra amatoria. amatorious Philters: Moreover let it be considered, that it was in Wheat Harvest time, before Gelseminum or Mandrake-Apples could be ripened, and 'tis likely the young Child Reuben would be more fond of the delicate and sweet Flowers of the Fields, than of ill scented and immature Apples. To conclude, (if not too much already) seeing the signification of the word is uncertain; it rather appeareth to me, to be some other Vegetable than Mandrakes. The next Error is, that it's apparent by the abovesaid description, that there are no Masculine, nor Feminine shapes belong to this so much admired Plant, tho' some cheating Wanderers have imposed upon, and mocked the credulous Multitude, by showing a Briony Root carved into human shapes, for a Mandrake. And other Impostors cut the Figure of an ugly Image, with a form of a Face, at the top of the Root of Mandrakes, leaving those threads, stringy Roots, or small Fibres which sprout from this Root, and many others, to hung down, and resemble a 〈◊〉 and long Beard, and so show it abroad as a Miracle; but see the many false conceptions concerning this Vegetable, confuted by Dr. Brown in his Vulg. Err. The Death most painless, hath been noted to be, saith my Lord B●●●n, upon the taking a Potion of Hemlock or Mandrake Apples, which inhumanity was the form of Execution of Capital Offenders in Athens; the cause is, that the torments of death are criefly raised by the strife of the Spirits, and the cold Potions quench the Spirits by degrees, like to the death of an extreme old Man: I conceive it, saith that great Man, lesle painful than Opium, because Opium hath parts of heat mixed. Notwithstanding the apprehensions some have of the noxious quality of this Vegetable, yet old Herbals say, The Apples may be eaten with ●epper and hot Spi●●s, and some Practical Author's talk, How a scruple of the inspissated Juice, was given to those that ●ere to suffer Amputation, or a Member to be cut of, to tender them insensible of pain; but I judge it would not work such an effect; I know not what the Decoction ●● the Root or the Juice of the Apples or Bark and Leaves might do in a large Dose, perhaps take away all their Senses for ever. In the Shops. The Root, Leaves, Apples, and 〈◊〉, are nominated amongst the Simples in the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Oil of Mandrakes, called Oleum Mandragorae 〈◊〉, is also therein, being a Composition of the 〈◊〉 and most stupefying Ingredients that can be 〈◊〉 to be put together, but is seldom kept or prepared, nor did I ever see it prescribed. Yet it may be anointed upon the Temples and Noses of those that are in high Frenzies, upon the Forehead and Temples in great head-aches, and upon the Pulses and Sols of the Feet in great watchfulness, and in 〈◊〉 vigili; it will give ease to any Pain, and cool any Inflammation, if there be no other Indications, and Symptoms to prohibit the use of it. Melons. Num. 11. 5. N. K. D. P. Pepo. Jun. & Trem. vulg. Melo. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, ex 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Coquo, emollio, quia coctus a sole▪ The best Sort are called Musk-Melons, by reason of a sweet Musky Smell. Mathiolus and others call the greater Pepones, Pompions, the lesser Melopepones, Melons, thy differing only in Size, Shape and Smell, belonging to the Cucumeral Tribe. See Cucumbers. Thomas these Plants have but a small slender Stalk, yet produce a vast bulky Fruit in well managed Gardens, and differ according to the Soil and heat of the Hot-beds; some Gardiner's raising as great ones (though I doubt not so wholesome) as those in the hot Countries, where they prospero best. I have seen them raised (which seems to be the most wholesome) Mr. speeds way, cap. 14. which he says will produce as good Musk-Melons as any are in Italy. Plant them under a Wall or Pale, towards the Sun, in the best Mould you can get, laying under the Mould, a quantity of fresh Barley Straw, and so by using the Seasonable Covertures, and necessary furtherances, (as to Cucumbers) you attain easily your desire: If the Straw make the Earth too hot, thrust a Stake through the Soil, to the Straw, that some of the heat may evaporate. Virtues and Uses. These Pulpy Fruits are held by Galenists, but cold and moist in the 2d deg. if so, than they are not so cold as Lettuce and Purslain, and are, as Cucumbers (or Cucumbers, as the vulgar stile them) under the Moon. The Flesh or internal Substance is slimy and sweetish, yielding crude and waterish Nourishment, of harder digestion than Cucumbers, and are more fit for robust and rustic Bodies, (which are hardly prejudiced by any thing that usually fills the Belly) who eat them boiled in Milk, and buttered; others slice the Pulp, and fry it with Butter and some bake the Slices with Apples, the two former ways, being the most wholesome, the latter being more crude and windy, but they are usually corrected, with Pepper and Spices. They provoke Urine, and cool hot Stomaches, good for Hectical Bloods (saith one) that cannot bear A●ids: The Spaniards and Italians eat them, to cool the boiling rage of Lust: if they do remain long in the Stomach, they are apt to putrify, and 'cause pestilential Fevors, and produce Surfeits and Loosenesses. In the Shops. Melon-seeds are one of the four greater cold Seeds, which by their slimy and mucilaginous Substance, do obtund hot acrimonious Humours, and alloy, and temper acrid Salts, so good in Emulsions in heat of Urinal, Coughs, Consumptions, and preternatural Thirsts. Mint. Matth. 23. 23. Luke 11. 42. N. K. D. P. Mentha 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉; the Name of Pluto's Harlot, transformed into a Herb, as the Poets do fabulate. But 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 also is Mentha, (i e) Suavis odor, A sweet smell (which strongly flows from this good Housewifes' Herb) more properly gives it the Name. There are many sorts of Mint, as Speer-mint, Mentha Spicata, crisped or curled Mint, M●n●ha crispa, with others of the Garden, which yield little or no good Seed, and are propagated by Off-sets and Slips from the Root. The wild sorts are Horse-Mint, Mentha caballina, or Mentastrum aquaticum; Watermint, Sisymbrium sive Mentha aquatica Calamint, or M●untain-Mint, Calamintha Nep, or Cat-Mint, Mentha nep●ta, sive Cataria; these are all very well known, by good Women, and by the young Botanists, and Herbwomen belonging to Apothecary's Shops. Virtues and Uses. Garden-Mints are held to be hot and dry almost to the end of the 3 deg. and all the Astrological Writers place it under Venus, who (it may be) gave it the quality (to cross the Milkmaids) of preventing the coagulation, curdling, or cheesing of Milk, if steeped in it, although the Coagulum or Rennet be throughly mixed in the same; And therefore nothing more usual, with some Physicians, who, when they appoint their Consumptive Patients a Milk-Di●t, than to order a Sprig of Mint to steep in the Milk, some short time before they drink it: The Stomach of such Patients being too apt (through a peculiar degenerated Acid Humour, (Rennet) or Serum, which lurketh therein, raising Flatus' and Eructations) to curdle the Milk, as their too often Vomiting of a cheesy Substance after it, doth make it evident. Now Mints have a biting, aromatic, bitterish Sapor, with a strong fragrant Smell, abounding with a pungent Volatile Salt, and a subtle Sulphur, which disvig orate and destroyeth Acids: And herein doth lodge the Causation of such Medicinal Virtues in this Herb, and others of the like Nature. And so a Pultiss of Mints mollifieth the hardness of women's Duggs, arising from the Coagulation of their Milk; the further uses of Mint is in Weaknesses, Flatus' and Crudities of the Stomach, in Vomitings, Colic Pains and Indigestion; All which, and more Virtues arise also partly from the great quantity of sixth Lixivial Salt, which may be made from it; for lb j of dried Mint (or that after it hath been distilled) calcined, hath yielded above half an Ounce of Salt; and therefore must 'cause this Vegetable to be so excellent a Stomachick. ● Calamint is, to my knowledge, used by many Physicians, before the Garden Mint, by reason of its greater Virtues, which its Name, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 imports Quasi elegans aut utilis Mentha, A choice and profitable Mint, one of the good natured Planet Mercury's Herbs (to be found on upland and dry Grounds) respects and operates strongly on the Womb and Feminine parts, warms the Viscera, but especially is a great Cephalick withal, exciting the motion of the Spirits, and heating the Nervous Fibres, as one well observes, and as myself have often experienced: it is also ●ectoral and epatick: It killeth Worms, and expelleth the Foetus and dead Child, if decocted in Wine, and drank. The other Mints are much of the same Nature as these. In the Shops. The dry Herbs. 2dly, Mint-water. 3●ly, Spirit of Mints. 4thly, Syrup of Mints. 5thly, The Conserve of the Leaves. 6thly, The Simple Oil. 7thly, The Chemical Oil. Of Calamint, the Powders called Diacalaminthus Simplex, and composit. The Spirit of Mints is a good Cordi●l, dispenseth Wind, and stayeth Vomiting, it is very hot, and aught to be given in a small Dose, half a Spoonful or lesle. The Chemical Oil, corrects a Dose of Purging Pills, preventing their Griping, and renders them more Stomachical, expelling Wind, if a drop or two be added unto them, when beaten up, The Diacalaminth Simple warms the Stomach, procuring Digestion, especially in old Age, cutting gross Phlegm, expels Wind, and provokes the Menses and Urine. The compound Powder is more appropriated to Women than the former, expels the Birth, Afterbirth, and cleanseth them after Labour. Does. of each is ʒ ss at a time. If the Midwives will take notice hereof, they may give it in a Draught of White Wine Posset-drink, or other-Liquor. The Syrup of Mints is binding, as made with the Juice of Quinces, it's pleasant comforts the Stomach, procures an Appetite, and greatly stayeth Vomitings: The Oil of Mints Simple doth the same, if the Stomach be anointed therewith. Mullberry-Trees. ● 2 Sam. 5. 23, 24. 1 Chron. 14. 14. N. K. D. P. Morus. The Fruit Morum. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Morus, quasi Maurus, ● 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 niger, obscurus, vel à mora i e. à tarditate 〈◊〉. because it bloometh not till the rigour of Winter is past, about May or June, and therefore called by the old Writers, Sapientissima Arbor. This Exotic Tree was sent for by King James I his Command, from Italy and France, who did with extraordinary care recommend the propagation of it, to this slothful Nation, by a Book of Directions, Acts of Council, and in his admirable Letter to all the Lords, Deputy-Lieutenants, Gentry and Ingenious, which may be seen in Hartlib's Legacy, 14. Defic. p. 59 Edit. 4. The Black-fruit-bearing Tree is most common, called Morus celsa vel niger: though the White, so called from its pale coloured fruit, is recommended and cried for its surpassing uses, the fruit is more luscious in taste, and lesser than the black, both well known to Inhabitants where they grow, being large and tall Trees in some Orchards or Gardens, in some Countries, but not very common. It is nursed up from foreign Seed rarely (hea● being wanting) coming to perfection here, but the sowing of ripe Mulberries themselves, (or after the Juice is expressed, or the Excrements of Hogs, yea Dogs, which will frequently eat them) doth produce young Plants abundantly; but 'tis best to bruise them with fine rich Mould, and sow them in rich, succulent, fine and rank Soyi; they are also raised by Suckers, Slips and Layers, delighting in the Sun, and where Vines prospero most, hating watery low Grounds, though loving to be well watered at first. Virtues and Uses. The Timber of this Tree, for its durableness, is of incomparable ●se to Joiner's, &c. also to make Hoops, Bowes, Wheels, etc. instead of Oak, for it lasts as well in the water, and its Bark will make Bast-●opes, no Vermin nor Caterpillar dare attack it, except the curious Bombyx, the Leaves (for which they are chief propagated, producing abundance as well Leaves as Fruit) appear about May or June, the Silkworms than seeming, after a Winter's sleep, to revive, feed, and work, answerable to the ends of their Creation; the white, rather earlier than the black, being chief prized, yielding a Food, producing a finer Webb. The fairest Mullberries, Rome (when in her height and Luxury) preferred before any ●ruit they had from Africa or Asia, some hundreds of years, before Italy or Naples thought of Aurelian Silk; and France, (which is strange) was ignorant of the Silken Manufacture, above a thousand years after Italy had made it; yet 'tis prodigious, to consider what a gainful progress, within a hundred years the French have made in it, to our shame be it spoken: since where these Trees prospero, the wondered Silkworms will thrive also I suppose some may meet with the Tract, who may not read the many large inviting Discourses extant, to the propagation of this famous Tree, and consequently of the Silken Trade: Therefore have I been the larger, to invite my Native Countrymen and Ladies (who I wish were as willing as witty) to the Planting and Cherishng of it; for we may make it here better, and cheaper, and save the Money sent to France and Italy, if we had but enough to furnish ourselves. Besides the Leaves nourish Cows, Sheep, and other Cattles, and boiled with Bran feed young Porkers, in Devonshire and those places, where they grow; the blacker sort of Fruit is the most common, and of it they make a sort of Mullberry-Cyder; see Apples. And so leaving you to the larger Discourses of Columella, and his Junior two hundred years Palladias', (both ignorant of the Silken Trade) Mr Lvelyn, etc. I shall (resuming my own Province) with the ginger, assign it to the mutable Planet Mercury, being as variable in its Uses and Virtues, For the ripe Berries are laxative, being sweet and slimy, and the unripe (especially if dried) bind, stop Fluxes; the Bark of the Root hath a purging quality, and the Bark of the Tree is bitterish, (as is the Root) and hot, and is astringent. Gal. saith, The first Buds have a middle faculty, both to bind and scour; and the Leaves and tender Tops are very temperate. The Berries by their acidity and sliminess, are good to heal sore Mo●ths, and an excellent Wine is made of the ripe Fruit in some places. In the Shops. Diamoron, or Honey or Syrup of Mullberries, of which see more under Bramble. Mustardseed. Matth. 13. 31. and 17. 20. Mark 4. 31. Luke 13. 19 and 17. 16. N. K. D. P. Mustard, quasi mustum arden's, being use● to hasten the Fermentation and Depuration of new Wine, or Must. In lat. Sinapi, or Sinapis; 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, à 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Hurting Mustard, a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Laedo, by its volatile Acrimony, hurting the Nose and Eyes. Garden Mustard is as well known, as it is manured with us, keeping possession, in that Land, where it hath once got footing; flowering in July, and yielding the Gardener its Seed in August, either whitish or reddish, or purpureous. The wild sorts are Hedge-Mustard, or Frysimum. Treacle-Mustard or Thlapsi. and many others, but these are chief used, and well known to the Herbwomen and young Botanists. Virtues and Uses. They are under the sharp and offensive Planet Mars, and in the old way of Physic, which is now exploded; Common-mustard is hot and dry in the 4th deg. but those that more accurately, demonstrate the Virtues of Simples, from their Sapours, Odours, and essential Principles of Plants, do found it to abound with an acrid heat, yielding a volatile Salt, which upon con●usion assaults the Nose and Eyes. The Seed being made into Mustard, corroborates the Stomach, and provokes an Appetite, and greatly helps Digestion, in stoppages of the Breast; it bravely cleanseth, and causeth expectoration, cutting gross Phlegm, and good in Gargles, in Lethargies and Palsies, to draw humours from the Head, and outwardly exulcerates the Skin, in Vesicatori●s or Synapismes, and provokes Sneezing, being infased in Drink, it is a great Antiscorbutic and Diuretic. Erysinum Lat. & Gr. by Gerhard Bank-Cress, is accounted hot and dry in the third Degree, hath Cress-s●por, being a wild Acrid, and endued with a volatile Salt, an excellent Her● in all Diseases of the Breast, and Lungs, the Decoction of it is given in Hoarsnesses, Jaundice, Pleurisies, and Dropsies of the Breast, in Pectoral Decoctions, etc. Treacle-Mustardseed is also hot and dry in the third Deg. In the Shops. White Mustard-Seeds are an Ingredient in some Antidotes, as Electuarium de ovo: Treacle Mustardseed, semen thlapsi are in Mithridate, Theriaca Andromach, and Antidote of Mathiolus. For these Seeds resist Poison, break inward Apostems, faetum necat, as Authors say, if followed, and given in a Dose to ℥ ij. it purgeth Choler: Syrup de Erysino, is made of the Juice of Hedge-mustard, and deserves for its surpassing Virtues, to be kept in more Shops than it is, having experienced it to be a singular Remedy in cold Distempers of the Breast and Lungs, Asthmas and Hoarseness, in which there is no better Syrup in the Shops. Consulting Dr. Dickenson formerly by Letter, about an Eminent Gentleman, who had laboured long under a Nervous Distemper, he ordered, That a draught of the following Ale were drank every morning, and at four or five a Clock. ℟. Mustardseed lbj. infuse it in a pottle Bottle of small Ale for three days, strain it as you drink it: and you may fill it up ten times, upon the same Mustardseed, and it will be rather-stronger than at the first; This Drink also is good in Dropsies, Sciatica, and inveterate Scurvy. In the Palsy. ℟. Mustardseed dried and powdered, ℥ v. Nasturtium-Seeds ℥ ij. Syrup of the Juice of Sage lbi. or so much as is sufficient to make it into an Electuary. Dose is ℥ ss, daily for some months. In cold Paralytical habits, to prevent also. Batean. In many Shops as I could name, to which famous Physicians do belong, the Leaves of Hedge-Mustard are kept in fine Powder, as also of Ground-Ivy. And Dr. Willis orders in a Consumption, thus. ℟. Powder of the Leaves of Hedge-mustard ℥ iss. scummed Honey ℥ iiij. mix them for a Lohoch to be licked with a Liquorish-stick, especially first and last; it is most convenient in a cold Constitution, and new Consumptive Cough. In Colds, Hoarsenesses, Stoppages of the Breast and Lungs, I am want for the poor People, to prescribe two spoonfuls of good fresh Mustard; with four or six spoonfuls of Honey, Oxymel, Syrup of Hedge-Mastard, or other Pectoral Syrup, and very often common Treacle or Molossos with a few drops of Oil of Aniseeds; which though ordinary, I have seen great effects by it, and do here publish it for the sake of the Poor. Or ℟. Balls. Lucatel. ℥ ss. flor. Sulphurisʒj flor Benzoin ℈ i pull. fol. Erysini vel. baederae terr. q. s. f. pill. instar pisor. cap. iij. primo & ultim. for richer Consumptive Patients. An outward Oil to rub the Spina dorsi, and Paralytic Members, called Ol. Paralyticum. ℟. Mustardseed lbiij. Castor ℥ ss. Cloves ℥ ij. Nutmegs ℥ iij. Spirit of W●ne ℥ iiij. bruise them well, and infuse them in Balneo Mariae for 24 hours, than press out the Oil strongly with a Press. An excellent Oil in the dead Palsy, in cold Aches, Weaknesses, Pains, and benummedness of the Limbs; it also strengthens the Nerves, and Stomach if anointed therewith, and at the same time; give it inwardly from 20 to 60 drops, in a draught of Sage Ale. It hath done wonders, it's somewhat costly, and therefore I recommend it to the Rich Ladies to keep by them for their Poor Neighbours. It being the Secret of a great Physician, I formerly was Assistant to in his Practice. Myrtle-Trees. Neh. 8. 15. Is. 41. 19 & 55. 13. Zech. 1. 8, 10, 11. N. K D. P. myrtus. Lat. & Gr. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉: à 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 vel. à 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 odoramentum, ob odoris Suavi●atem. Vulg. Myrtillus, and the Berries Baccae Myrtilli; Myrtleberries. There is more than half a dozen sorts of this Vegetable, found in hotter Regions, as in Spain, near the Seacoasts, France, Italy, tho' this fragrant Plant came first from Greece: The vulgar Italian wild Myrtle grows somewhat high, but is not so fragrant, others like to Shrubs, and some much lower, as are two sorts, which I have seen, the Myrtus minor & mucronata, & Myrtus florifera duplex, in the Conservatories of the Curious, both in Cheshire and Staffordshire. Dutch Myrtle. Myrtus Brabantica, or by some Elaeagnus Cordi, sweet Gaul, grows in the Fens of the Isle of Ely, and in other places, and in some Gardens: Myrtle is a tender Evergreen Plant, easily destroyed by cold, seldom or never perfecting its Berries with us, but is raised by exotic Seed, and will strangely be propagated by Layers: A few Mats or Straw 'tis said secure it better than Pots or Boxes, in which the Roots are confined and grow arid. Virtues and Uses. This pleasant Vegetable is reckoned under Mercury's Government, and generally said, to be temperately cold and dry (if any thing can be said to be so) and greatly astringent; but he that tries, shall found, both by smell and taste, it hath a thin warm Essence, emanates from the green fresh Leaves and Flowers, giving a very quick fragrant smell, and a sharp rough aromatic Sapor; the dried Leaves must needs therefore dry and bind more than the fresh; and if you make a Decoction of them, they make a pleasant Drink like Tea: And some do affirm (with Simon paulus) the Leaves of the Brabant or Dutch Myrtle, is prepared and vended hither as the true Tea. It must needs be good (either Leaves or Flowers of Myrtle) against Catarrhs, Rheums, Fluxes of the Belly and Stomach, strengthening the same, and be a refeshing Cordial to the Animal Spirits. Also in Haemoptysin and all other Issues of Blood: But I think it is very seldom used (except the Berries) in the Materia Medica, and kept more for the Rarity and curious smell, than for any other use. The Excrescence of this Plant called Myr●idanum, is the strongest binder of all, and operates as Acacia. In the Shops. Myrtleberries, Syrupus Myrtinus, or Syrup of Myrtle. Oleum Myrtinum, or Oil of Myrtleberries. These Berries are cold and Earthy, do dry and bind powerfully. The Syrup is compounded of such binding Ingredients, as it excess the Syrup of Quinces, and Read Roses, in a binding faculty: yet comforts the Miscera, in Vomitings. Fluxes, Haemoptysis, and Corrosions of the . The Oil is cooling, thickening, and binding, and hath the effects of that of Quinces, strengthens the Brain, Nerves, and Stomach, if used as an Ointment, or in a strengthening Emplaster. I have said that Myrtle is an Evergreen Vegetable, now an Evergreen is one degree above a Plant, whi●● is simply Perennial: Of this only the Trunk and 〈◊〉 live all the Winter; of that also the expanded Leaves. Myrtle, Cypress, Cedar, Juniper, Ivy, Firr-Tree, Pine, Olive, and all Resinous Piants, which for the most part have a fragrant smell, are Evergreens, by reason the Juice wherewith they are nourished, is viscous, and not easily dissipated; In all such, Sulphur (hence the smell) abounds, with a little Salt and Spirit. But the most pleasant sort of Myrtle, I met with, is the Nutmeg-Myrtle in Trentam-Garden, where the Ingenious Mr. Fleming, the Gardener, showed me not only this, but also several other curious Rarities. As also there hath been some variety of them in the curious Garden and Green-House at Dodington-Hall in Cheshire, the Noble Seat of that favourer of all Ingenuity and Goodness, Sir Tho. Delues, Bart. Nettles. Job 30. 7. Prov. 24. 31. Isai. 34. 13. Hos. 9 6. Zeph. 2. 9 N. K. D. P. Urtica, Chamaeleon Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Vrtica, Herba-cujus folia acriter urunt, (i e.) pungunt, unde Nomen, a Nettle. The greater stinging Nettle is Vrtica urens major, and the lesser is V●tica urens minor, and the Roman Nettle is Urtica Romana. The V●tica iners or mortua is dead-Nettle or Archangel, called Lamiaum. Chamaeleou is a sort, of the Thistles. The sense of Feeling, beyond Seeing, will discover the stinging or burning Nettles to any one, for they truly merit the name Vrtica, ab urendo, from their burning facuity. Virtues and Uses. This vexing Vegetable is hot and dry in the second Degree, of subtle acrimonious parts, are l●sted under Valiant Mars, who hath Armed them Cap-a-pe with Flaming Swords, to offend those that dare to lay hands on them. Nettle Roots are aperient, incide, absterge and mollify, provoke Urine, and expel Gravel; and are held by some good Women, and some Practitioners, a great Arcanum in the Jaundice, which is the Aatictericum Gesneri, thus prepared, ℟. Of the greater Nettle Roots sbj. Juice-Dose is four or six ounces on mornings in ●ed. being covered well to sweated gently after it. But it will be convenient to purge first. The Juice and Leaves, Conserve or Syrup, are excellent in the Affects of the Breast, (as also the Seeds are Pectoral) carrying of by Urinal, plenty of Serum, and by their Acrimony open Obstructions, and so very proper in Empiema, inward Apostemes, Pleurisies and Peripneumonia's that are ill cured, or unskilfully managed; in Orthopnea and old Coughs-The Juice of the lesser Nettle stayeth nasal Fluxes of Blood, if drunk, and used outwardly, and cureth their own troublesome stingings, as Parkinson saith; but I fancy warm Honey or Oil of Roses doth it better: They are esteemed a peculiar Remedy (especially the Seed) and Antidote against the venomous bitings of Dogs, and other mad Creatures, and resist the cold Poisons of Hemlock, Hen-bane, Solanums and Mandrakes. Winter's are generally cold and moist, and if Mars that is hot and dry, hath any thing to do with Nettles, you may guests at the reason why Nettlepottage is so much eaten by some in the Spring, while the Buds and Tops are tender; (to wit) to rarefie, and attenuate gross viscous humours, accumulated in our Bodies and Blood, by the coldness, and moistness of the Winter, and to open Obstructions, cleanse, and carry of the superfluous Serum of the Blood by Urin. In the Shops. Common Nettle-Seed, Roman Nettle-Seed: The Conserve Flor. Lamii. alb. & rubr. These Conserves of the Flowers of Archangel, are prized as a great Secret by some Midwives and others; and by Physicians too, the Conserve of the white Flowers, to cure the White Fluor, and the Conserve of the Read Flowers, to stop immoderate Months. Besides these Flowers are deoppilative, Emollient, open and soften a hard Spleen; and I have been told, that the bruised Leaves applied to the Nape of the Neck, have stopped the bleeding of the Nose. In exorbitant Hemorrhages, and effusions of Blood, from any part, proceeding from an acrimonious dyscrasy, or the Mouths of the Vessels being over lax, in a Scorbutical Blood, Tyroes may observe, that Dr. Willis useed to prescribe to the poorer sort, thus, ℟. Tops of stinging Nettles, and Leaves of Brooklime, each four handfuls, bruise them and press out the Juice, and keep it in a Bottle, take two or three ounces in a morning, and also at four a Clock, for some time, as I have ordered, in a Decoction of Plantain Leaves. Nuts. Gen. 43. 11. Can. 6. 11. N. K. D. P. Nuces, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Nux. By old Jacob's Command to his Sons, I take them here as Nutmegs; 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Nux Myristica Aromatites, Nux unguentaria, & Muschata, this Tree and Fruit are called. The Nutmeg-Tree is as big as a Pear-tree, with green Leaves, like Orange-Tree Leaves; it fructifies as our Wallnut-Tree with an external thick Husk, which in time grows dry, chaps, and dilates to make way for the Nutmegs which is covered with another Coat, of a splendid Crimson Colour, but quickly by the Air is changed to a citrine duskishness, and being pulled of from the Nut, is that which we call by the Arabian Name Maciz or Mice. It groweth in the Islands of Banda, and the Moluccoes in the East-indieses, and gathered in September. Others Sorts of Nuts are the Indian Nut, called Cocus. The Indian Hazelnut, called by the Indians Caramei; by the Pexsians and Arabians Ambela; these Nuts are there eaten familiarly. The vomiting Nut, called Nux vomica. The Pistach, or Fistick Nuts, Nux Pistachia. Earth Nuts, Nucula terrestris, or Bulbocastanon, called also Pig-nuts, because Pig's rout in the Earth after them; Some Botanists say there is a Majus and Minus of this last sort; but Mr. Ray thinks there is but one Species, the Roots are bulbous, and taste sweetish like to Chestnuts, and are well known. See Chesnut and Hezel-Nut in this Book. There is the Barbadoss Nut, and other Sorts also, not so proper here. Virtues and Uses. Nutmegs and Mace are well known to all people to be hot and dry; some say in the 2d deg. and are Astringent; and according to the Modern Naturalists have an Oily, Aromatic Smell, and a hot bitterish, and Aromatic Sapor. Being a solar Fruit, chief respecting the Head and Stomach, and a refreshing Cordial; the best Nutmeg is that which is most weighty, and fat, so that the Oil followeth a Needle, when run into one. Mace is like Nutmeg in Virtue, but not so strong; yet I think better for the Stomach, both carminative, and mixed in Hystericals'. The Cocus, Indian Nut, or Coco-Nuts, are form like a Melon or Date, some are big as a Cabbage. This Tree is said to yield Meat, Drink, , Medicines, all Utensils for Shipping, and other Building, yea, even the Shell is prised with us for Drinking-Cups, tipped with Silver; various Boxes, as Snush, and for other uses; for these Shells are of different Shapes, greater and smaller, finer and coarser, etc. See Palms. Earth-Nuts (or as some call them Ground-Nuts) are moderately hot and dry, reckoned to be under Venus, and incite her Frolicks; may be used as Chestnuts, and eaten raw, or roasted; beyond Sea they are boiled, and eaten as we do Turnips: The Powder in Electuaries, helps spitting or pissing of Blood. In the Shops. The Chemical Oil of Nutmegs: The Oil of Nutmeg by Expression: Condited Nutmegs; the Chemical Oil of Mace; the Oil of Mace by Expression. The Pistach Nuts; the Vomiting Nuts. The Male-Nutmegs is sometime found at the Druggist's, which differs from the common Sort, in that it is longer and weaker. Pistach-Nuts used in Medicines are hot and moist, concoct humours in the Chest, open the Lungs, are used in consumptive cases, and are an Ingredient in the Analeptick Antidote. It is the Fruit of an exotic Tree. Vomiting Nuts are the worst (as Nutmegs are the best) of Nuts, are cold in the 4th. deg. belong to the poisonous Class. Some judge it to be the Root, and not the Nut of a Vegetable: 'Tis not to be given inwardly, the Apothecaries cell it to give ravenous Fowls, powdered and strued on Flesh, and laid to tender them stupefied and drunk; it also intoxicate Fish, mixed (with other Narcoticks, or of itself) in some proper Paste. A crime against the Law, but too often committed without Punishment. In stoppages of the Breast, and Co●●s in Infants and Children; the Mothers and Nurses, had better mix the Oil of Mace, with twice as much Dialthea, or Ointment of the Flowers of Oranges, melting them together, and apply them warm to the Breast; or drop one Drop of Oil of Amber to it, or of Aniseeds. Also the distilled Oil of Nutmegs, helpeth the Gripes in Infants, if the Navel be anointed therewith. Schrod. The Oil of Mace strengtheneth the Stomach, and stayeth Vomiting, helps Digestion, expels Winds, penetrating more than Oil of Nutmegs, consisting of thinner parts. Oak. Gen. 35. 4. 8. Jos. 24. 6. Judge 6 11. 9 2 Sam. 18. 19, and 10. 14. 1 Kings 13. 14. 1 Chron. 10. 12. Isa. 1. 29, 30. and 2. 13. and 6. 13. and 44. 14. Ezek. 6. 13. and 27. 6. Mos 14. 13. Amos 2. 9 Zech. 11. 2. N. K. D. P. Quereus, Robur, Lu●us, (which is a Grove) Jun. & Trem. vulg. Quercus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Fruit called Acorns, is called Glans, for an Acron is the Nut of an Oak, the Acron-Cup is Capula, or Galix glandis. The Spongious excrescence, or Oak-apple, is Spongiae quercini, or Bedeguar, by some. Misletoe is viscus quercinus. Polypody or Oak-Fern, is Polypodium Querci. There are many kinds of foreign Oaks, the Scarlet Oak is Ilex coccigera. The Holme Oak is called Cerrus: the Cork-Tree or Cork-Oak is Suber: the Gall-Oak, or Gall-Tree is Gallae Arbour. But the two Sorts, most common with us, are the Quereus Vrbana, the stately tall Oak, and Quercus vel Robur Sylvestris, the Dwarf Oak, spreading more, and brings a smaller Acorn. These are raised by the Acron, and should be transplanted young in October; they are raised also by Of sets and Suckers. The renowned Forest of Deane in my native County of Gloucester, has yielded the best Oak in Europe, for the King's Ships, and other uses. And among many other places, in the Park at Madeley Manor, in this County of Stafford (belonging to the Ingenious, and very hopeful young Heir, the deservingly honoured John Crew Offley Esq) doth grow the Que●cus Vrbana or stately Oak, surpassing, all in this County both for quantity, greatness and goodness. And the Dwarf-Oak grows plentifully in a great Common called Horrel-Wood, belonging to Defford and other Villages, the Right Honourable Lord, John Lord Coventry being the Proprietor of them. Virtues and Uses. This of old was Jupiter's Tree, called Jovis Arbour, for amongst the Celtaes, Heathens of old, a tall Oak was the very Idol or Image of Jupiter: and those Magis of old to the Gauls and Britain's, termed Dryadae Druids, worshipped the Oak, in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, whence also Druina, a Mystical Name of late for England, which formerly hath contained vast Forests and Woods of this Royal Tree. And now in New-England in the inland parts, there are large Forests of Dwarf-Oak. The Leaves, Bark, Acorns, and their Cups, greatly bind, and are dry in the third Degree, being very rough if chewed, and of a cold quality. The Acorn-Kernels are not so cold, nor binding, the Bark is a great binder; the thin skin under the Bark, and that which covereth the Acorn, are best to stop the Bloody Flux, and spitting of Blood, Lasks and Feminine Fluxes. The Decoction of the Bark, and the Powder of the Cups, greatly bind also. I have used 'em in Gonorrhea's with good success. The Buds of Oaks kept dried, are very proper in Wound-drinks, or the young Leaves. The Acorn binds least of all, if eaten, hath a very rough sweetish taste; the Austere parts of the Sap, which in a Nut are drained of into the Shell, (so made sweeter) being here imbibed by the Kernel itself; they are hardly concocted, and of ●rude and cold nourishment, yet Men heretofore (nay Jupiter himself) fed o● Ac●r●s till their Luxurious Palates were debauched; and when the Romans second Course at Table was served up of M●st, than Men had Hearts of ●ak, (i e) living naturally strong, and healthful by feeding on things easy, parable and plain. For the Glorious and Wise Romans highly esteemed the Oak: for Pliny c●omments thus, Glan●iferi maxime generis omnes quibus honos apud Romanos perpetuu: Mast-●earing-Trees were principally those the Romans held in great esteem, for they had amongst their Crowns of Honour and Reward, the C●rona Civica, which was made of Oak, whence called also Corona quercea. But to return to the uses of Acorns: In Mast-Countries (as in the Wood-lands in Wor●●stershire, and other places) where Hogs feed on them the Swines-flesh is rendered hard and sound: One peck of Acorns, with a little ●ra● per diem, 'tis said will augment a seeding Hog one pound a day in weight ●or two months together: But 'tis good to macerate first in water: A●d▪ if Acorns be powdered, or grinded small, they will f●t Pigeons, Turkeys, Peacocks, etc. An● from the Leaves of Oak, Bees gather Honeydews very much, as Mr▪ 〈◊〉, the great Be●-Master, tells us in his Tract of Bees. The Oak-Apples bind and stop F●uxes also, and 〈◊〉 ●alled Omphaci●●●, are dry in the third Degree, and cold in the second, very harsh▪ repel Rheums, and F●uxes, especially those of the Throat and▪ 〈◊〉 but their chief use is for the ●yers, brough●●●om Italy, Spain, and other Countries, being ga●ere● before they are ripe. And in Foreign parts, the Scar●●●-Oak is esteemed ●●e 〈◊〉 the Acorn whereof is eaten in Spain; ●●● 〈◊〉 or Berries are called Chermes (the Juice of which is the Basis of the Cordial Confection called Alkermes) and co●cus B●ph●●●●s, yielding as so●●●ave thought, the Maggot, which is our Cochin●l●, that is such a great Cordial, and colours the fine Scarlets▪ but this opinion of these Berries and Insect, is now of late exploded by the Ingenious. The Cork-Oak is a courser sort, of it our Cork● are made, and those Corks taken out of Wine-Vessels, do absorbe and bind, and may well be ordered with other things against the Bloody Flux; And Riverius hath an Observation, That a Co●k-stopple, lo●g used, and drenched with Wine, burnt to Ashes, ●nd ● drach● taken with White Wine, cured one of the Colic pain, that it never returned again. The several uses of Oaken-Timber is universally known. The Sap of Oak is more tough than the Heart, although the Heart be more durable, because of its Oiliness, there being a lesser proportion of Oil in Bee●h, Birch, and other Trees, than there is in Oak, so they are apt to imbibe the moisture of a dark Air, and so rot, or breed Worms: for the Oak and all ponderous Woods and Shrubs, as Box, Ash, Elm, have Salt abounding, with a mean of Sulphur or Oil, and a small proportion of Spirit; such flourish to longaevity, and their annual vegetation is maintained by a Nutritious Juice under the Bark, though▪ their Leaves fall. It is observable, that three years' growth in an Oak, (I do not mean in an Acorn that spontaneously grows▪) is as thick as five in an Elm. The Bark of Oak, which is somewhat Resinous a● Dr. Grew sa●●h, doth exceed all other Barks, for the Tanner and Dv●● and the young Bough● of the lopped Oak in the Spring time, serve the Tanner as well as the Bark, as many Tanners have experienced within these few years: The Sawdust and Ashes of the Oak also▪ challenge a preference; and for Fire or Charcoal there is no Wood equals it. The Mast exceeds all other Mast of the Forrest-Trees; for the Hams from Westpholia and other parts of Germany, are of those Swine that feed on this Mast; but it is best to give Pigs a few Pease after them: Oats being scarce in the year 1681. Acorns were dried on a Klin, and given to Horses by the poorer sort of People, Colliers, and such, in some parts of Staffordshire, and Cheshi●e, near the famous Hill called Mowcop. It is greatly his Interest, that minds the thriving of young Trees, that they be set that the Roots may run just under the Turf, in the Surface of the Earth, the higher the better, provided they are kept moist, with some wet Straw, and defended from injuries the first year; for some bury the Roots in a depth of thick Clay or Gravel, so that they cannot shoot a sprig of a span long for many years, for a Tree will thrive as well upon a Stone Wall that is washed with Rain-water, as in a hole a yard deep; this I speak generally, and not of such particular Trees as delight in a singular Minera of Earth. To conclude with what Rapinus saith, Si● quando armandae Naves, etc. Thus translated. When Skips for bloody Combat we prepare Oak affords Planks, and Arms our Men of War: Maintains our Fires, makes Ploughs to till the ground, For use, no Timber like the Oak is found. In the Shops. Galls. Acorns, and their Cups, ●ark, and Buds, Misletoe; but no Composition, that derives its Name from any of these. The Bark and Leaves are used by Surgeons in Vulnerary Baths and Fomentations: in Mouth-Waters: and is boiled by the Countryman in Ale, to drench his Cows that ●●ke bloody water. Misletoe grows on many other Trees besides the Oak; I have used (the Viscus Oxyacanthus) that of the Haw-Thorn in the vertigo, stupidity, and dullness of the Head and Intellectuals, in a Decoction, and found it excellent. Misleto of Haw-Thorn and Crab, I tasted this Summer in Glocestershire, bitterish and acrid, its acrimony overcometh its bitterness. Sir J. F. saith, The Virtues of the Tree and Misleto so much differ, that it cannot be better on one Tree than another; he could found no excellency in that of the Oak above others. It tastes bitter, astringent, hot and acrid, by which its good for the Epilepsy; it ought to be given forty days. I never had it so as to be able to say it was the true Misleto of the Oak, so never experienced it; but some say they have cured the Falling-sickness with it; and the famous Mr. Boyl (in whom all Learning did concenterate) tells us of a radicated Epilepsy, That was cured by the Powder of it, given as much as a six pence would contain in black Cherry-water, or Beer, for some days near the full Moon. Old Dr. Tristram of Bell-Broughton in Worcestershire, a skilful Botanist (and one that understood the Virtues of some Herbs experimentally, as well as any Man in England, carrying on a great popular Practice, with Simples, Decoctions, etc.) used that Misleto of the Haw-Thorn, in Cephalick cases with strange success. Acorns decocted in Milk, help exulcerations of the Bladder, pissing of blood, caused by corroding Medicines, Cantharideses, or other poisonons corrosive things. And the Powder of them easeth Stitches, and pains in the Colic and Sides: And Dr. Bates had a Powder which he called, the Iliack, or Colic Powder, thus made. ℟. Acorns without their Cups ℥ iss. Nutmegsʒij. Sugar ℥ ss. mix them, and make a Powder called also Pulvis Lateralis. Olive-Tree. Olive, Gen. 8. 11. Exod. 23. 11. Deut. 6. 11. and 24. 20. & 28. 49. Jos 24. 13. Jud. 9 8, 9 and 15. 5. 1 Sam. 8. 14. 1 Kings 6. 23, 33. 2 Kings 5. 26. 1 Chron. 27. 28. Neh. 5. 11. and 8. 15. and 9 25 Job 15. 33. Psal. 52. 8. and 128. 3. Jer. 11. 6. Hos. 14. 6. Am. 4. 49. Mic. 6. 15. Hab. 3. 17. Hag 2. 19 Zec. 4. 3, 12. and 14. 4. Mat. 21. 1. and 13. 3. Luke 19 29. and 21. 37. and 22. 39 ●o. 8. 1. Rom. 11. 17, 24. Jam. 3. 12. Rev. 11. 4. N. K. D. P. Olea, Oliva ' 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. There are 2 sorts, the manured Olive, called Olea Sativa, and the Oleaster or wild Olive-Tree: The first grows tall, with many Branches loaded with Willow-like-leaves, of a perennial verdure, the Fruit or Olive follow the Blossoms and are green, than pale and purplish, but when full ripe, black, and do contain a Stone. These differ, some bigger, others lesle, some oval, long, round. The Oleaster, or Olea Sylvestris, is much smaller, and armed with sundry sharp thorns in its Branches, the Fruit scarce arriving to Maturity. These Olive-Trees thrive only in hot Countries, being propagated by Stickers, and Layers, thriving best within 40 or 50 miles of the Sea; flowering about Midsummer, but the Fruit come not to maturity till towards Winter. The finest and sweetest Oil comes from Candia, Majorca, Zant, and the Isles in the Mediterranean Sea. A stronger tasted Oil from Provence in France. Wild Olives flourish naturally in Spain, Italy, Portugal, and other hot Regions, never bear Fruits in cold Climates, nor scarce live a Winter. Virtues and Uses. Olives are reckoned to please the of Venu●, and when gathered, they are laid a while to whither, than by gaining, and some water being added, to rarefie and extract the Oil, it is pressed out; some that yield not much Oil, are the fittest to eat, and are gathered unripe, and are pickled for use, and called Colymbades; The wild Olives are much delighted in, and are gathered to be eaten, and those that yield any Oil among them, give us a green, colder, and more astringent Oil than the manured. This Vegetable is of a median temper, the Branches, Leaves, and tender Buds, (especially of the wil●●) do cool, dry, and bind; but the Oil of unripe Olives, called Oleum Omphacinum, doth cool and bind most; and the ripe Oil doth mollify, and is anodyne, and the older it is the more it warms, and discusseth. It's properties are distinguished by its sweetness, and odor, if rancid the worse. Oil is used in Salads, to preserve the Stomach from the corrosive acrimony of the Salts in Vegetables, and to hasten by its slipperiness, the expulsion of cold Herbs out of the Stomach. Olives pickled, do (as all pickles) 'cause an Appetite, yield little nourishment, apt to offend the Head and Eyes▪ the pure Oil of them, if really sweet and fine, is far more beneficial to those that can eat it eaten with a Toast fasting, it openeth the Belly. And the Mountebanks usually fill their Stomaches with Oil and fresh Butter, before they swallow poison, to defend the Stomach, and dint the edge of the poisonous Salts, and occasion Vomiting. The Faeces or Leeses of Oil called Amurca, is most astringent. The Timber of this fat Vegetable, is of so curious, smooth and durable a Grain, that without much Polishing, it is made into rich Cabinets, Pendulum Cases, etc. and Solomon made the Cherubins and the Doors and the Posts of the Temple with it. And the Jews used to make Booths or Huts, with the Boughs of it, at their Feasts, being an Ever-green, and so pleasant to behold: and hence the Faithful and Godly Men are compared to the green Olive-Tree in Psal. 52. 10. In the Shops. The best eating Oil, that is fresh old Oil called Omotribes, and Oil Omphacine, the several and divers uses these are put to in Pharmacy, and by Tradesmen, and Women, would be ridiculous and needless for me to relate. Olives pickled, are more kept for the Cook, than Medicinal Uses. Onions. Numb. 11. 5. N. K. D. P. Cepae. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Many sorts of Onions are distinguished in our old Herbals. The white and read, are only I think propagated in our Kitchen-Gardens. They are sown in March, and are usually ripe in August, than to be taken up, and dried in the Sun, and reserved for use in places rather dry than moist: Being sown with Bay-Salt, they have prospered exceeding well, and remember when grown to some reasonable bigness, to bend or tread down the Spindle or Stalk, which will make the Head the larger, and so you ought to do by Garlic. Among the Exoticks the Sea-Onion, or Squills, called Scylla, or Squillae, being a great bulbous Root, is much used in the Practice of Physic: it grows by the Seaside in Salt-Marshes, in Spain, Italy, and other Countries, as the common Spanish, that of Valentia, etc. Ascallions, are tender young Onions, a kind that growed in Ascalon a City of Judea. Virtues and Uses. This culinary Root is ruled by fiery Mars, and is very offensive like to him; being hot and dry in the fourth Degree, yet not so hot as Garlic; the Juice is of thin, aqueous substance, endued with a biting and acrid volatile Salt, which fumes and offends the Eyes, and Nose, like Spirit of Soot. They are very much used several ways in the Kitchen, notwithstanding their rank smell, arising from a rank Oil in them; but yield little nourishment, only do well tempt down other Herbs in Salads, and correct the coldness of Lettuce and others. They hurt Choleric and hot Constitutions, causing head-aches, and Sleepiness, and are more wholesome bolled than raw. They are excellent for the first applications in Burns and Scalds, bruised with a little Salt, before blisters arise, which it will prevent, as I have often experienced. For they mightily draw, as you may And, by laying one peeled on a Dunghill, which by, drawing putrefaction to it, will be rotten in lesle than a days time; it's likely it will do so in a Postilential B●bo, and in the bites of mad Dogs, and other venomous Creatures. The Juice snuffed up in the Nostrils, purgeth the Head, in Lethargies▪ The roasted Root will draw and ripen Apostems, and may be good boiled in Pultisses: The Juice is droped into the Bars, for to cure pain in them. They are a great Diuretich, sliced and infused in White Wine all night; for a morning's draught, hath brought away abundance of Gravel and Stones, or in Rhenish, removes the stoppages of Urine. Squills, aught to he fresh and full of Juice, than are hot and dry in the second Degree, more rank and acrid than Onions. All the preparations of them do attenuate, and out viscous humours, strongly used in Asthmas, cause Expectoration. The Wine of Squills taken every morning, is said to preserve the Body in health, to a great old Age, cleansing the Stomach of filth, and the Body of excrements, helping Digestion; no doubt 'tis a good Medicine. I fancy it much. In the Shops. The Root hanging up in the Shop, but not too long, jest it grow dry. The Vinegar of Squills. The Wine▪ Oxymel Simple and Compound, Lohoch Scilliticum. Honey of Squils'. Trockisci de Scylla. Scilla●ppr. the Wine (which is best for Vomiting) Vinegar, and simple Oxymel are most used to mix with Vomits. Dose is from ℥ j to ℥ ij. which of itself will Vomit an easy and ticklish Stomach; they are very safe workers, operating by nauseating the Stomach by their taste, and smell, and inciding humours. The Troches of Squills are made for Venice-Treacle, being the first Ingredient in it: They are made of prepared Squills. In an old Cough, Stoppage, or shortness of Breath, let the Countryman roast an Onion under the Emberss, and bruise it with a little Honey, Sugar-Candy, and Oil, and take it fasting, or at bedtime. Or take this simple Syrup of Garlic, ordered by a great Doctor. ℟. Cloves of Garlic peeled ℥ iiij. boil them till soft, changing the Water twice, pour the water of, and put the Garlic into a Vessel, unto which put Syrup of Vinegar ●● ss. stop it up close, and set it in a Skillet, with Hay under it, and in water, and boil it for half an hour, and so you have a Syrup of Garlic: Eat four or five Cloves every morning, and also a spoonful or two of the Syrup. Good in Consumptions, kills Worms bravely, helps Digestion, and provokes an Appetite, good in Dropsies and other cases. The Preparation of Squills as it is in the Pharmacopoeia, is appointed to o●tund the Acrimony of them, being strongly acrid and bitterish, making the Skin smart if rubbed thereon. In a Suffocating Asthma, to dissolve thick humours, and discuss Vapours. Oxymel of Squills, and Cinnamon-water, equal parts mixed, has done great matters, tho' plain, taken a spoonful or two at a time. Oyl-Tree. Isai. 41. 19 Arbour Oleosa. This I take to be the Olive-Tree. Also the Pinetree is translated for Arbour Oleosa in another place. If it be asked how a Vegetable comes to have Oil in any part, since the Sap, by which the Root is said, seems to be nothing else but Water; and that many Plants, which yield a deal of Oil, as Mint, etc. will grow in water: It's answered, That the Sap or Water, is not made Wine or Oil; but the Oil, and all other Vegetable principles are actually existent in, and mixed per minima, tho' in an extraordinary small proportion with the water, even as we see the distilled Waters of Aniseed, Pennyroyal, etc. to be impregnated with their own Oils, which give the taste and smells to such Waters. Now these Vegetable principles being in or together with the Water, received into the Plant, are separated in very different proportions, by the several parts and Vessels of the Plant, adapted to their proper and peculiar uses, to the service of the whole. So than there is a certain proportion of Oil, or Sulphur, more or lesle, mixed with all the Water in the World. Palmtree. Exod. 15. 27. Leu. 23. 40. Numb. 33. 9 Deut. 34. 3. Jud. 1. 16. and 3. 13. and 4 5. 1 Kings 6. 29, 35. and 7. 36. 2 Chron. 3. 5. and 28. 15. Neh. 8. 15. Psal 92. 12. Cant. 7. 8. Jer. 10. 15. Ezek. 40. 16, 37. and 41. 18 Joel 1 12. Jo. 12. 13. N K. D. P. Palma. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Palma quod expansis ramis in modum Palmae hominis. It is called also the Date-Tree, from its Fruit called Dates, Dactyli à similitudine Digitorum. The Palmtree is a very large Tree, having a thick Trunk, and many Branches. And is an Ever-green, whose Leaves, 'tis said, do never fall, they grow in Couples, Male and Female: And both thrust forth Cod's full of Seed, but the Male produceth Flowers only, and not Dates; and the Female is only Fruitful: and 'tis observed, brings not any, except it be Planted near the Male, to which they seem to incline, having their Boughs extended towards it, more on that side than on any other. Whence the Ethiopians do usually plant them so, that the wind may carry steams, Effluvia, or powder of the Flowers, or Seeds from the Male to the Female. They grow chief in Egypt, Syria, and the Eastern Countries; as in Phoenicia, so called by the Grecians, from the abundance of Palm-Trees there growing, from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a Palm, which was anciently the special cognisance of this Country, as the Olive-Branch is of Spain, the Elephant of afric, the Camel was the Ensign of Arabia, and the Crocodile of Egypt. Also Idumaea, (i e.) Edom is much celebrated, by some Writers of ancient times, for Palm-Trees, as Arbusto Palmarum dives Idume in Lucan. And the Country of Numidia, which is Africa, ●s called, I found, Dactylorum Regio, in the Arabic Bilelulgerid, which signifieth a Date-Region, from the abundance of these Trees flourishing there. They grow also in the Canary Isalnds, amongst which, saithe ●. Bauh. There is one called the Palm-Island. The barren kind grow in Italy and Sicily, and are called Pal●ises, or Chamaeriphes, or wild Palms. Virtues and Uses. Dates ought to be soft, full, fleshy, and blackish without, or with a yellowish read, in the carnous substance, having a sweet vinous Sapor; being thought to be hot and moist in the second Degree; but if not ripe, hot and dry and somewhat astringent, and Astrologers have given them to Mars, perhaps to please the Lady Venus with. Those that are grown dry, or such as come not to ripeness in colder Regions, do greatly bind, are hard of Digestion, and breed gross Humours; but ripe and good, they nourish more, and strengthen the Child in the Womb, stop Loosenesses, Fluxes, and Vomitings of such Women; they strengthen the Back, and Venus; our Ladies and Gentlewomen know to what ends to use them very well. As well as the Indians do the Drink called Sura, which Linschotens speaks of, that flows from the Blossoms out. The Boughs and Leaves, 'tis said, do strongly cool and bind, and are used in some Countries to make Garments, Baskets, Mats, and to Thatch Houses. The inward Pith of the Tree is an excellent Salad, better than an Artichoa●, which it resembleth in taste. And the Fruit is commouly eaten: the Tree tapped two or three foot above ground, (as the Birch-Tree) yields an excellent Wine called Mignerol, like the white Champains, thence are termed Wine-Palms. The Date-stones feed their Goats, whereby they grow fat and yield store of Milk. In the Journal des Scavans, May 11th 1682. a French Author in the Description of Hispaniola, (where the French had got footing, but formerly the Spaniard) saith, The Palmtree is indisputably the most profitable of all Trees, and reckons four kinds there, two most considerable, one whereof yielding Dates for foo●, the other called Wine-Palm, which Liquor ferments itself so high in few days, that there is no Wine more pleasant. The Fruit of the Indian Palm, is called Coquos, full of a waterish Liquor, each Date containing the measure of a pint or two, very transparent and pleasant for Drink; the Pulp within is tender and soft, but after a longer maturation, waxeth harder, and eats like a Hazelnut. Finally, this Vegetable is said to yield whatsoever is necessary to the life of Man. And 'tis said to contain Materials for a whole Ship: It's Wood being light and spongy, they cut into Planks; of the outward Husks of the Fruit, they make Cordage, the Sails are made out of the Leaves, which the Indians call Olass. Athanasius saith, Anto●ius the Ermite gave him a Coat of the fine Flax thereof. It is the nature of this Tree, tho' never so ponderous a weight were laid upon it, crescere sub pondere, not to yield to the burden, but still to resist the heaviness of it, and to endeavour (as doth Chamomile the more 'tis trod on) to lift and raise itself upward, for this cause planted in Churchyards in the Eastern Countries, as an Emblem of the Resurrection; instead whereof we use the Yew-tree in these colder Regions: For the same reason, (as also Palm-Leaves being firm and durable) given by the Romans to their Victorious Combatants and Conquerors in their Coronet, called Palma Lemniscata (because the Garland or Coronet was tied about with certain woollen Ribbons called Lemtisci) and so from its repugnant Energy, and hardiness, it is the Emblem or Hieroglyphic of a Soldiers Life: Nay, Heywood in his Hierarchy of Angels, saith, 'Tis the Hieroglyphic of Man, first, because 'tis barren, unless planted near the Female, a Coitus being imagined, being full of Maesculine Gems, like Seeds. Secondly, because in the upper part thereof, there is a kind of Brain, which the Hebrews call Hallulab, and the Arab, Chedar or Gemmar, which being bruised, the Tree instantly withereth, (as Man dieth presently upon the perishing of the Brain) The property only of this Vegetable: On the Top, or Head, there groweth that which resembleth Hair, the Branches resemble the Arms and hands, and the Fruit like Fingers; hence figuratively, 'tis used for precedency, as huic equidem, consilio Palmam do, in Terence; sometimes for the Victory itself, as non auferent tamen hanc Palmam, in ●liny: And plurimarum Palmarum Homo, for a Man that had won many Prizes in the Fenci●g-Schools, as in Tull. pro Rosc. more naturally for the sign of Victory, as in that of Hor. — Palmaque nobilis Terrarum Dominos evehit ad Deos. The Palm, of Victory a Sign, Equals Men to the Powers Divine. In the Shops. Dates. The Electuarium Diaphoeni●on, and the two Emplasters, called Diaphoenicon calidum, & frigidum, that is the one hot, the other cold. The Diaphoenicon Electuary strongly purgeth Phlegm and Choler, useful in Glisters, in the Colic, purging all cold and crude Humours, for it warms. The hot Diaphoenicon or Emplaster of Dates, greatly strengthens the Stomach and Liver, and helpeth Fluxes and Vomitings, if applied to the Belly or Stomach, being a good Stomach-Plaster in a cold Constitution, or Disease, as the cold Emplaster is in hot Tempers, in the same cases. But I think they are seldom used or kept in many Shops. The Diacalcitheos' Plaster, vulgarly called white-Plaster, is ordered by Galen, and Authors of old, to be stirred with a Slice or Spatula made of a Bough, or Wood of the Palmtree, to augment its cooling. and strengthening virtue and efficacy, and thence also formerly called Diapalma in our London-Dispensatory. The Indians make Sugar called Jagra, in the East-indieses, of the Liquor Sura, by boiling the sweet Liquor, and setting it in the Sun to congeal; for the Liquor is sweeter than Whey, as you may see more of it in Linschotens' Voyages, cap. 56. Pinetree. Neh. 8. 15. Isai. 41. 19 and 60. 13. N. K▪ D. P. Arbour Oleosa. Tae●a. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Pinus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Pinus, not very well derived, a Piana: because the Leaves of Pine are dura a● aculeata, hard and very sharp, or a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Pinguis; or 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●t in ●n mutato. Taeda signifies strictly the fa● Torch-Pine, or the middle or Heart of a Pine full of Rezin or fat Liquor, that will burn like a Torch. There are many Species of Pine, Pitch and Turpentine-Trees, being all of a Genus: some reckon ten sorts of Pinetrees, I shall chief insist on the Pinus Sa●iva, the Garden or manured Pinetree, and Pinus Sylvestris or Pin●ster, the wild Pinetree. The first, is by some accounted the Female, the last being lower and courser, is called the Male, of which there are most sorts. The Cones or Pine-Apples are called Coni, or Stro●ilus, which contain a Nut, called Nux Pinea: These hung commonly two years before they are ripe, and ●hen ought to be gathered in June before they gape, for always some green, and some ripe, are found on the Trees, as the Berries are on the Shrub Juniper. From Larix the larch Pine, flows the best and most Venus' Turpentine in the hottest Season; and from a wild kind called Picea, or Piceaster, the Pitch▪ Tree, emanates most Pitch. This stately Evergreen is now a common Ornament about the Gardens and Houses of our English Gentry▪ so that I shall not meddle with any Description of it, le●● they or their Gardeners should correct me. They thrive best in Greece, ●p●in▪ Franc●, and the remote hot Countries of the World, but as beautiful with us, through the Care and Skill of expert Gardiners, as any where. In Foreign parts, the Turpentine-Trees delight in cold, high and Rocky Mountains, the Fir grows tallest and tapering, (abies in Montibus al●is) and loves to be alone; but Pine in Woods, on Mountains, especially the wild in some Regions, where none other Vegetables do grow; and in some cold Regions also, as Germany, Poland, Sweedland, Leifland. They are raised with us, by the Kernels, the Pine will hardly bear a remove (best sowed where you intent they shall grow) unless very young, and than not in over rich or fat Land; Fir will grow better transplanted, and may be propagated by pricking the Slips in the ground at about two yard's distance, as I am informed by one that hath quickly raised a fine Walk: but you must be careful to preserve them moist, therefore over hot, Sandy, or Gravelly Land is not so proper. These Trees for the first half dozen years, grow but slowly, but do come on wonderfully afterwards, the Pi●aster bears the proudest, and most stately Branches, and fairer Leaf. Mr. Evelyn tells us of one, that shot sixty foot in height, in a little more than twenty years. Virtues and Uses. Pinetrees are of great use both at Sea and Land, the Timber being well known to Ship-Wrights, Carpenters, and o●her Mechanics— V●ile Lignum, Navigiis Pinos, Geor 2. Astrologers accounted this Balsamic Tree (how truly I know not, for I think 'tis influenced by a far more benign Planet) under Saturn, the whole Vegetable has a Turpentine sm●ll, and has a rough, bitter Sapor, being reckoned cold and dry in the second Degree, and a great astringent, especially the Scales of the Cones and Park of the Tree, the Tops and Leaves being almost of the same temperature, stopping Lasks and Dysenteries, and provoke Urine greatly, through their Turpentine quality. And indeed the Tops and Twigs of these resinous Plants and Trees, which are a great number, as Fir, Cypress, Pines, Juniper, Ivy, etc. that emit Balsamical ●ffluviun●s, are of late years often prescribed by Physicians in Diet-Drinks, Decoctions, and Milk-Waters distilled, and others in the Scurvy, Dropsies, Nephri●is, inward Ulcers and Fluxes: And where they grow about Houses of the Gentry in abundance, do correct the malignity of the Air, by their Balsamical and Odorous Emanations. And tho' Barthol. in his Medicina Danorum dissert. 7. disclaims the use of Hops, and substitutes the Shave of Deal-boards, Tops of Pine, Fir, Sage, etc. the chief end of boiling Hops in our ●nglish Drink, is by their bitterness, to alloy the strong sweetness, or lusciousness of the Malt, and so both the ●itter and sweet uniting themselves, make a well tasted and wholesome Drink. Now this may be do●e by Broom, Ling or Heath, Wormwood, Juniper, Fir, etc. I know a good Family, that for 16 years past, that hath always used Broom and Robin-Herb, or Groun●●▪ Ivy dried, instead of Hops, and it preserveth Drink as well, and as pleasant in taste, provided it hath Age; some in the Morelands', boil the Eri●a vulgaris Heath dried, (as Dr. Plott observes they do about Sheuston, not f●r of Litch●●el● and ●a●ck-Wood) in their Drink, which I have drank of, and f●und no ill taste: And 'tis very strange, seeing other wholesome and bitter Herbs, will as well supply the place of H●ps, that People will buy them for their Ale and B●er, tho' they are of never so great a price or value. But one great reason of their propagation and general use, is the advancement of Land, by them, to the highest improvement, usually to 40 l. or 50 l. sometimes 100 l. per Acre, and yet not enough planted to serve us, but have them from Flanders and Holland, etc. because our Countrymen are loath to bestow their Labour and Industry about a Plant, that is so subject (beyond all others) to the various mutations of the Air, from the time of their Budding till plucked, as over much Drought or Wet, Mildews often totally destroys them. But those that have any part of a Crop, and the Shopkeepers and Tradesmen will never encourage the use of any other herbaceous Plant in their stead, (tho' far more wholesome, not not in such a scarce Summer as this is like to prove) because they get abundance by them, even as some have, vast Estates. And our poorer sort of People, will not go out of their road, but Hops will use at any rate; they are such Ignoramuses. And indeed, often have I wondered, that Drinks prepared with Elderberries, Juniper, S●ge, and 20 other things, are not only more encouraged by our Gentry, but also ushered into Publick-Houses, instead of Coffee and other foreign Liquors seeing the simple Decoctions of those Simples, sweetened with Sugar, make pleasant Liquors to the Eye and Taste, and beneficial to the Body; and how much more, if meliorated by Skill and Art. The Timber of Pinetrees is lasting and durable, not subject to Worms, nor rottenness, and the Heart of Deal (as the best Deal-boards, which frequently are sawed from Pine) if kept dry, is said to be everlasting; and Mr. Evelyn saith, a Pine-Nut, or a Walnut set, (they are best preserved in Sand) doth usually overtake a Tree of ten years' growth, which was planted at the same instant; a worthy Observation, in which the Noble Poet was mistaken, Geor l. 2. Nam quae, etc. Trees which from scattered Seed do spring, are made Come slowly on for our Grandchildren's shade. The wild kinds yield most , Turpentine, and Pitch, all which flow naturally in very hot Climates, from these Trees, and more is forced out by the burning of the Wood and Timber: Pix liquida, or liquid Pitch in Brabant Teer, in English Tar, is made out of that sort of Pine, in New-England, from which naturally Turpentine extilleth. The Tar-makers burn the hardest Knots of these Trees, almost as we do Charcoal, or more like a Lyme-Kiln, catching the Tar at the bottom, a kind of Distillation per Descensum; the knots afterwards are an excellent Charcoal; The worst Pitch is Tar boiled up, adding some course Rozin to harden it: from the fuliginous vapours and smoke of these Trees when burnt, the stuff called Lamp-black, and Printers black is gathered, being a light Soot. I found no noxious quality in this Tree, except that of Pliny be true, lib. 17. cap. 12. where he saith, That no Plant will prospero or thrive under the Branches or shadow of the Pine; but I am confident he was mistaken, or it may be they would not in his Country. In the Shops. Turpentine of all sorts, Stone-Pitch, Tar, Rezin Burgundy Pitch, Naval or Ship-Pitch. These not properly belonging to Vegetables, I shall leave them (to be discoursed of perhaps in another Tract.) Pine-Kernels, Nuclei Pinearum: the expressed Oil, as Oil of Almonds is drawn. Lohoch de Pino, Vnguentum Resinum, or Ointment of Rezin. Pine-Kernels are Ingredients in Antidote. Anale ptica, or the restaurative Electuary, much used by ●ome heretofore in Consumptions, Atrophy. Also in Diapenidion, Diasatyrion, in Lohoch de p●pavere, and other Preparations. They are temperately 〈◊〉 and moist, being fresh Kernels are very Pector●●ourish well, and good for such as pine away, also help hot Urinal, and Distempers of the Reinss. The Lohoch of Pin●-Nuts, is also appropriated to Coughs, and Distempers of the Lungs, and to Hectical Bodies; for which also the Diapenidion or Penedies are proper (the three Spices being left out) also in Hoarsnesses and Salt Catarrhs. The Ointment of Rezin, is made of the best Pine Bezin Turpentine, Wax, and pure Oil, each equal parts melted together into an Ointment; and is a curious gentle drawer and breeder of Flesh in Wounds and plain Ulcers, and helpeth Pains, Sprains, and weakness of the Nerves. TAR PILLS Are a Nostrum in some Shops. Tar being Pix liquidae or liquid Pitch, is of a hot Balsamic Nature, and these Pills are cheap and easily prepared, yet not the worse to be thought of, in Colds, Stoppages and Stuff of the Breast and Lungs, and Consumptive Coughs, where there is no Hectic. ℟. Flowers of Brimstone, Aniseeds and liquorish powder each equal p●ts, and with fine Tar so much as is sufficient, make it into a Mass like Paste, so as you may roll it into small Pills, swallow three, mornings and at night, first and last: A standing Pill, used by great Physicians in a great Town I know. See a more rich Pill in Willis s Pharmacop. Rational. par. fol. 97. made up with Tar. Pomegranates. Exod. 28. 33, 34. and 39 24. Deut 8. 8. Numb. 13. 25. and 20. 5. 1 Kings 7. 8. 1 Sam. 14. 2. 2 Chr. 3. 16. and 4. 13. 2 Kings 25. 17. Cant. 4. 3, 13. and 6. 7, 11. and 7. 12. and 8. 2. Joel 1. 12. Hag. 2. 19 N. K. D. P. Malum granatum, vel Punicum, or Malus granata, sive Punica, Poa sive 〈◊〉. Heb. Rimmon. Which names signify the Fruit also. There are two kinds, the manured and wild; of the last, two sorts, the greater, or Malus punica Sylvestris mayor and the lesser, or Balaustium majus, & minus, because these wild sorts only bring forth the Flowers in the Shops, called Balaustins. And the Flowers of the manured or Garden, are called Cytinus the Bark, or Rind, or Peel, is called Malicorium, or Cortex Granatorum. Th● Milus punica sativa, or Garden Pomgranate-Tree, riseth not above seven or eight Cubits high, spreading into many slender, tough, brown-coloured Branches, clothed with many green glistering Leaves, like to P●ivet, defended with thorny Weapons, confusedly set, beautified with a Crimson Carnation-coloured single Bell-flower, fixed in a Cup or Husk, with threads in the middle; lastly, the whole is crowned with a great round, smooth, hard ruddy-coloured pomegranate, which when ripe, containeth reddish grains, soaking in a plentiful quantity of clear Juice like Wine, of a sweet and sub-acid taste, which sometimes corrodes the Bark and destroys the Fruit. The wild, are a shrubbish low Tree, and do only bring forth the Flowers or Balaustines, which are double, and of a bright Crimson, or a more sad read Orange-tawny colour. They grow in Italy, Spain, Egypt, Nova-Hispania, and other warm Countries, especially in Granada a Province in Spain, so called from Granata or Pomegranates that fructify plentifully▪ there; a pomegranate Or being the Arms thereof: They grow also with us, by the help of Conserva●●●ies, and Hothouses, in the Gardens of our curious Gentry, yet come to no perfection, for they very rarely flower with us. The reason why such tender Trees do not fructify with us, that are more accustomed to hotter Climates, is chief through the defect of concurring Causes, amongst which are most considerable, the want of a competent heat, that is lasting and equiparable to the heat of the Climate, and nature of the Plant in its Native Soil: for the presence of our intense cold or Frost in Winter time, reaching the Roots of such tender Trees, prevents their Fruitbearing by suspending the fermental action of the Principles, if not totally kills them. Virtues and Uses. This vinous Plant is placed under the Sun, by some under Venus, more truly; by others, the Sweet Juice, or Wine is moderately hot, but with us rather cooling and astringent, through its sowrness, pleasing a hot friguting Stomach, and stays Vomiting, and Fluxes from Choler, useful to Women with Child, yet this Fruit yields little nourishment. The Cortex or pomegranate Bark tastes rough, hottish and biting, excellent in all Fluxes whatsoever in Man or Woman. The Balaustines also thicken, dry and bind very much, and are good in Decoctions▪ to amend the laxity of the Gums, and looseness of the Teeth, in the Scurvy, especially boiled in Claret with a little Myrrh: Also they are Bark and all boiled in Gargarisms, against the Relaxation, and falling down of the Wula and To●sils. In the Shops. Balaustines', called Flores Bal●ustiorum, and pomegranate Bark; and the Syrupus Granatorum, and Juice or Wine. If the Wine of Pomegranates do stay the immoderate Long of Women with Child (unless the coldness of the Stomach hinder) as 'tis recommended by some to do, why may not the yrup do the same, being only made of the Juice and Sugar and excellently doth quench the thirst in burning Fevers, cuts and fits viscose humours for Expectoration, and corrects the boiling heat of Choler, pleasant to the taste, and useful in Diarrh●a▪ s and other Fluxes. The Bark I have found to tender Ink more black and durable, if bruised and put in it with Galls, a little Allom or Sugar▪ The Palate of the Mouth and Wula being (as 'tis vulgarly termed) down, touch them often in a day, with the following Powder, either blowed up with a Wula spoon, or with your Finger, ℟. Balaustines', Roots of ●istort, and Tormentil aa. ℥ ss. Allumʒij. beaten them to a fine powder, It was a great Doctor's Nostrum, and is very good. Poplar. Poplars. Gen. 30. 37. Hos. 4. 13. N. K. D. P. Populus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Populus, it may be a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, multus, à frondium multitudine. This vimineous Tree is properly but of two kinds, Populus alba, & nigra, the white and the black: But the Aspen-Tree is accounted a Species of this Vegetable, and called Populus tremula, or Lybica, Plin. which bears a trembling Leaf: And C. Bauhin in his Pinax, and others make a Populus alba foliis mi●oribus, the smaller▪ leaved Poplar▪ or Abele-Tree; but Mr. R●y is of Opinion, it differs not from the Populus alba. The white Poplar is not so frequently found as the black, which is not to be found neither in every County; they grow best in moist ground, near the Margins of Rivers, but not in the water as the Willow doth, being easily increased by the strait Branches, or Sets and Slips, but cut not of the top, till they have stood two or three years, than head them at 10 or 15 foot high, and they will yield a large Brush or , in a few years, the Branches of which you transplant, if you let them shoot upright, they are than more Ornamental. The Aspen differs little from the Poplar, only it will grow not only in moist, but in dry ground, in Copses, etc. as the most ingenious Gent. Mr. I W. in his Book of Agriculture, observeth The Abele-Tree is a finer kind of white Poplar, which in three years ariseth to an incredible altitude, in twelve years be as big as your middle, and in eighteen arrive to full perfection. These Poplar-Trees grow plentifully in the West-indieses. Virtues and Uses. These Trees come under the Aquatical Class of Vegetables, the Astrologers fall out about it, some say 'tis Saturn's Tree, others the Moon's's, the 〈◊〉 bed Sir is cold and dry, the Nocturnal 〈◊〉 is cold and moist, it's no great matter to stand abou●; for these Trees in their Medical effects, may be ro●●ted to both. The Bark of them all is bitter, astringent, and of a L●urel-taste, and Sir J. F. saith, They co●● nearest to the Jesuits-Bark of any English Trees. 〈◊〉 have found the Buds (called Oculi or Gemmae in 〈◊〉 Shops) of the black Poplar, clammy and resinous▪ Query, if the Bark be not so too▪ The white hath a cleansing property, saith Galen, and Dioscorides saith, is used chief outwardly and inwardly in the Sciatica, and Schroder in the Strangury, and Burns. Serenus Sammonicus gives it the following eulogy. Saepius occultus victa coxendice morbus Perfurit, & gressus diro languore moratur Populus, alba dabit medicos de cortice potus. And an ingenious Author well known, saith, The Fungi or Mushrooms which spring from the putri! Stump of this Tree, have not a venomous malignity, being gathered after the first Autumnal Rains. The black Poplar is reckoned more cooling than the white, the Buds of which are well known to the Apothecaries, and gathered early in the Spring, to be macerated in Oil and Hogs-grease, in order to make the Ointment called Populeon, when the other Herbs are ready sprung. The Leaves bruised with Vinegar ease the Gout, and may serve for Fodder in scarce years; the water▪ in the hollow places of this Tree, is said to cure Wa●ts, Pushes, Weals, Ringworms, and dry Scabs; the Countryman may▪ easily try it, washing the part often with it for it seems probable. The shade of this Tree is of ancient estimation, and the white Wood is of▪ (besides Fuel for the fire) singular use for the Turner, and sought after by the Sculp●or, and for several rustic Utensils, as for the Gardener, etc. In the Shops. Oleum, & Vnguentum Populeum. The Oil, and the Ointment of Poplar Buds. The Oil is a fine Cooler, but the Ointment, which is well known, is much better, being excellent in Burn, any kind of Inflammations, where unctuous applications are proper, in heat of the Reinss, arising from the Stone, or Gonorrhoea, in Fevers or head-aches, applied to the Temples; it provokes sleep, and gives ease. And is often applied to the Wrists, and So●ls of the Feet, in Fevers, burning Agues, especially may be very beneficial to Children, who will not take many inward Medicines, and also to others; I have often prescribed it as followeth: ℟. Ointment of Poplar ℥ ij Telar. aranear. i e. of Spiders, Cobweb, so much as will make it up to a thick Consistence, to be spread on Leather. This Ansifebrifick Plaster was the Secret of a very great Practitioner, and borrowed no doubt, from Emplast febri●ug. Strobelbergeri. Pulse. 2 Sam. 17. 28. Dan. 1. 12, 16. N. K. D. P. Lens. Legumen. Jun. & Tr. Lens is Lentils, of which see before. Legumen is all kind of Pulse. For the Leguminous-Tribe is large in the Vegetable Kingdom, comprehending many Relations. As Beans, Pease, Tares, ●●tches, Lentils▪ Ciches, Chichlings, another Siliquous Vegetables, most of them having their sub-divisions, as Sugar-Pease, etc. But I'll take Pulse here properly as Pease, of which we have the Garden or Rouncivals called Pisum Majus, and the Field-Pease called Pisum minus vel arvense. The Husbandman and others know them by the Epithets of brown, grey, white, blue, red, and others, as Maple-Pease, called Pisum Flore Roseo Semine variegato. and English Sea-pease, or Pisum Marinum. Also Birds Pease and Everlasting Pease▪ which yields a great Burden every year after the first; and last always, with care: Of which you may see more, if you delight in Husbandry, in that excellent piece of Agriculture, written by Mr. J. Woolridge. Cich-Pease, or Cicers, called Cicer rubrum, in the Shops, are sown in Gardens, and in some Fields, later than Pease, but will be ripe as soon. The exotic▪ Oily Pulse, called Sesamum is brought to the Druggist's, from Alexandria, Creta, and the Indieses, where it groweth of itself naturally. Virtues and Uses. Pease are much like Beans, lesle windy, but sooner pass through the Body, they have no effectual manifest quality, if any, rather cool, tasting slimy, raw, and some sweeter than others, and may be very proper to cool hot Scorbutic Bloods, that have lived on Salt meats, nourish not much, and yet old Herbarists say, they excite Venu●, and Milk in women's Breasts. The Pisum album majus, or the great white Garden Rouncival was sown at Milwich in this County in the Field, which did run well upon the ground, and kern well, notwithstanding their length; And he that attempted it, had such success, that he sold the Pease to his Neighbours for 10 ss, the Bushel. But the profits and uses of Pulse are so generally known, as well for Men as Beasts, that I shall leave them, and proceed to tell you of One (in a certain Tract published by Mr Hartlib) that pretends to draw from Pease, very good Spirits or Aquavitae, without Moulting, thus. Let Pease be taken and steeped in as much Water as will cover them, till they swell and come, and be so ordered as Barley is for Malting, only with this difference, that for this work, if they sprout twice as much, as Barley doth, 'tis the better. The Pease thus sprouted, if beaten small, (without drying) and put into a Vessel and stop● with a Bung and Rag as usually, will ferment, and after two or three or four months, if distilled, will readily yield a strong Spirituous Liquor; and saith, one Bushel of Pease will yield two Gallons or more of Spirit, as strong as the strongest Aniseed-Water in London, and better tasted than Malted Grain. Now this Process is no more than bore Fermentation, by which a Man may draw a Spirit from almost any green Vegetable, being beaten and mashed with a little Water, if not moist enough of itself, (as I have from Elderberries, Black-Cherries, and even from that Flower (which is not very Juicy) Read Poppey, or Corn-Rose, an excellent Spirit, a thing hardly known or used) Barrelled up and suffered to stand (as the thing I mentioned have done) a quarter of a year before it be distilled of, and rectified. In the Shops. Read Cicers, Sem. Sesami. Oleum Sesaminum. Cicers are reckoned hot and dry (much like to Bean and Pease when green, but thought to yield a stronger nourishment) in the Shops, and do mollify, and lenify, provoking Urine, cleanse the Reinss of Gravel, and waste the Stone, being mucilaginous, and slimy, yet somewhat bitter on my Palate; and are used in Nephritick Decoctions, as Forestus hath one, the Basis whereof are Cicers, which some commend above all Apozems in Distempers of the Reinss and Nephritis, you may see it in Decker's Notes on Barbetian, prax. cap. 8. But Dr. Grew saith, He questions not but that in some cases wherein Cicers are esteemed a good Medicine, a Decoction of the better sort of Pease, especially that we call the Sugar-Pease, may go beyond them, as the Meal of Beans doth beyond that of Fenugreek. The Sesamum Pulse, which some say is Tur●y Millet, is moderately hot and moist, and so is the Oil which is made by expression but seldom or never kept, both being emollient, dissolving the hardness of the shrunk Nerves, and are Paregorick in the Colic, and used in Coughs and Pleurisies, in a Linctus, saith Schrod. And I have heard the Oil cried up as a brave Cosmetick: But I never knew it used inwardly, I suppose it may nauseate the Stomach. Raisins. 1 Sam. 25. 18. and 30. 12. 2 Sam. 16. 1. 1 Chron. 12. 40. N. K. D. P. Wae Passae Jun. & Trem vulg. Passula. Wa. Vines in foreign Countries, produce some Grapes fit for the Wine-press, others for Raisins: which are ripe Grapes dried with the heat of the Sun, or other artificial heat, and are chief of three sorts, which also differ in goodness, according to the Country, Climb, Soil, and other concurring Causes. The largest Damasco-Raisins are called Wae Zibethae or Damascevae, the common Raisins of the Sun, are Wae & Passulae. And Currants or small Raisins, are Wae Corinthiacae. Raisins called Malaga (a Town of great Traffic and much Resort, especially for Raisins, Almonds, and Malaga-Sacks, situate in Granada, a Provence in Spain) are a worse sort, as also the Palermo and Smyrna Raisins: And English Currants. Virtues and Uses. Raisins and Currants contain not only a sweet Juice, but also a true Sugar, which lies curdled in the Pulp, as the more Saline parts do in green Soap, the like is gathered on the outside of a Fig, saving that 'tis more Nitrous, as being open to the Air. Our great Raisins (called by some, majores Germanicae) which are chief in use with us, do nourish through their sweetness and temperate substance, open Obstructions, cut viscous Humours, causing them to be more easily spit up, and are Diuretic, good in P●isans and Drinks, in Coughs and Hoarseness: but let it be remembered by Tyro's in practice, that they are rather heating, so not so proper in Medicines given in hot Tempers, Febrile, and Hectical Habits, and Coughs. The Stones are a stringent, and therefore often ordered to be exempted, in many prescriptions: The best Raisins have a thin Skin. Currants are very nourishing also, & open the Belly, are not so hot as Raisins, being beaten up with some Rhubarb into a Mass, or into an Electuary, and eaten fasting, often cure the Jaundice, and kill the Worms bravely in Children, that will eat it three or four mornings about the change or full of the Moon, good also in Dropsies, Weak Stomaches, Rickets. In the Turkish Dominions, where Wine properly so called, is forbidden by the Law of Mahomet, the Jews and Christians keep in their ●averns, a Vinous Liquor made of fermented Raisins; and indeed by the bore fermenting of Raisins and Water in a due proportion, without the help of Barm, Leaven, Tartar, or other additament to further their working; the late great Philosopher Mr Boyl saith, He divers times in a few days, prepared a good Vinous Liquor, which being distilled, afforded a great quantity of inflammable Spirit, like that of other Wine. And I question not, but that the Distillers make use of the Stalks and foulness of Raisins, to a far greater profit than our Country Shopkeepers, who throw them away, as good for nothing, when they might with a little Care and Skill, raise a pleasant Vinous Liquor from them, with some small Additament, as I myself have done; The great Read English Currants make the best artificial Wine, equal to that of Gooseberries, and from both may a strong Brandy be drawn. The Juice of them with equal quantity of Water, makes Vinegar very good. In the Shops. Lohoch de p●ssulis, Mel passulatum, & Electuarium passulatum. The Lohoch, the Honey, and Electuary of Raisins, are Medicines in the Dispensatory. The Lohoch is good for Children that have Coughs, and inclined to the Rickets, Consumptions, or Convulsion-fits, the Honey of Raisins opens costive Bodies that are Phlegmatic; and the Electuary purgeth curiously Choler and Melancholy, cleansing the Reinss and Bladder, evacuates viscous, and salt, sharp Humours from the Breast and Lungs. Doses may be ℥ ss. to ℥ j fasting. Purging Plums or Raisins, Which are fine, and pleasant laxative Medicine● for young Children, and other squeasie Stomaches▪ and weak Bodies that are costive, being a proper thing for a Charitable Lady's Closet. ℟. Sena well pick● one Ounce, Ginger and Cinnamon each one Scruple, Spirit of Wine lb ss. steep them warm and close stopped, for six hours, all night on warm Emberss, or in B. M. than when cold, strain it, and to the Liquor add of white Sugar one Ounce, best Raisins of the Sun four Ounces, boil or stew them gently rather, till the Plums are soft, and so keep them together for use, a Child may eat half adozen in a morning. ●o ●runes may be preserved also, or you may take out the Raisins, when you take it of the fire, sprinkle them wi●h Sugar, and dry them, and than they are a Candied Loosning Plum The best Brandy may serve for Spirit. Physicians ought to study in prescribing their Medicines, how to please the Palates of their Patients in some degree and measure, (as 'tis said the Lady's Doctor, the famous Dr. Tbo Cox did) for thereby the Dose is swallowed more willingly, stays with the Stomach more quietly, and obliges the Patient to a good Opinion of his Doctor, which, by the way, is no small adjuvant matter, in order to a Cure; for where the Patient has a high Opinion of his Physician, it is happy for them both, the Physic having thereby the better effect. Reeds. Paper-Reeds. 1 Kings 14. 15. 2 Kings 18. 21. Job 40. 21. Isai. 19 6, 7. and 35. 7. and 36. 6. and 42. 3. Jer. 51. 32. Ezek. 29. 6. and 40. 3, 8. and 42. 16, 20. and 45. 1. Matth. 11. 7. and 27. 29, 48. Mark 15. 19 Rev. 11. 1. and 21. 15, 16. N. K. D. P. Arundo. Calamus. Papiri. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Arundo ab ariditate, quod citó arescat. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. This Vegetable is of great affinity with us, and in foreign parts. The common Reed, is called Arundo vulgaris sive vallatoria, and is well known to grow on the sides of Rivers and Ponds. Arundo f●orida, or flowering Reed, which is of no great use. Matt-Reed called Spartum, which groweth on the Seacoasts, and River-sides. Cane-Reed called also Cypress-Reed, is Arundo Cyprica, which grows in Spain and other hot Countries, twenty or thirty foot high. Paper-Reed called Papirus Nilotica grows above three yards high by the River Nilus, called by Aegyprians Berd. Arundo Saccharina, Sugar Reed, or Cane; see Sweet-Cane before; as also Calamus Aromaticus; and Cassia, which some count a Reed. Virtues and Uses. The common Reeds in the old Herbals, are said to be hot and dry in the second Degree, I know not any thing of their Medicinal Virtues, and am loath to go into the Water, this wet Summer, to taste the Roots. But old Authors say, The Roots stamped, draw forth Thorns and Splinters out of the Flesh, and that burn● Ashes of Reeds, mixed with Vinegar, cure the Scurff and falling of of the Hair: The smallest Reeds (for they differ in magnitude) serve for Thatching of Houses, and Sheds of Watermens and Fishermen, and do stop the Chinks of Ship●, better than Glue or Pitch, saith a famous Author. Matt-Reed is only useful to Mechanics, of which also are made Matrs, and Frails or Thrailes, in which the Grocers sand their Fruit to the Country-Shop-Keepers. And of Cane-Reed are our Hand-Canes and Angling-Rods or Canes, made, also Slears for Weavers sundry sorts of Pipes, etc. as also certain divisions in Ships to divide and preserve Oranges and Lemons; and in China to beaten Offenders on their Thighs. These Reeds belong to the terraqueons Plants, being nourished with a mixture of Earth and Water, by the smoothness of the Bark or Cutis (it being the smoothest of all others) and by the concavity of the Bo●y they seem to draw their vegetative nourishment from Water. Paper-Reed yields out of its Roots a nutritive pleasant Juice to the People of Egypt. 'Tis judged by some Expositors, that this plant is the same Reed mentioned in the 2d Chap. of Exod. called there Flags, whereof the Mother of Moses made that Basket, which was daubed with that Country Slime or Mud, called Bitumen Judaicum, wherein Moses was found by Pharoah's Daughter. But certain it is, that in preceding times, Paper was made of Papyri, these Sedgy Reeds in Egypt, which was a rarity of Art and Nature mixed. They divided ●t into thin flakes (into which it naturally separates) than spread it on a Table, moistening with the glutinous Waters of the Nile, than it was compressed, dried, and polished in the Sun: By means of which invention. (Books being easier to be transcribed and reserved than formerly) P●olomy Philadelphus made his ●amous Library at Alexandria; and hearing how Attalus King of Pergam●●, by the benefit of this Egyptian Paper, strove to excel him in Manuscriptal Magnisicence, prohibited the carrying of it out of Egypt: Hereupon Attalus invented the use of Parchment, made of the Skins of Calves and Sheep, from the Materials called Membranae, and from the place where it was invented Pergamena, and in short time than did Egyptian Paper grow out of use, and our Paper made of Rags (of which see more under Flax) succeeded, the Authors of which excellent Invention our Ancestors have forgot to commit to Memory; great pity it is, so useful a Child cannot so much as name its Father. Before Paper or Parchraent, the Ancients writ first on the inward side of the Bark of a Tree, in Lat. Liber, whence a Book is Liber. Secondly, on Tables famed out of the main Body of a Tree, in Lat. Caudex, which gave the Latins occasion to call a Book Codex. Thirdly, they used to cover their Tables with Flux, and writ● thereon from whence a Letter-Carrier was named Tabellarius; the Pen they wrote with Iron, sharp pointed, thence called Stylus, Style now (thence derived) the peculiar kind of Phrase which any Man useth, as Negligens Stylus in Qu●n●ilian, & Exercitatu Stylus in Cicero. 'Tis recorded also, they use● sometimes to writ in Leaves, and that the Sibyl's Oracles being so written, w●re thence named Sibyllae folia, and from thence we call a Leaf of Paper. The Sugar-Reed, is Sweet Cane, of which see before; Sugar is the Essential Salt of this sweet Reed, which is purified by Dissolution, Filtration and Evaporation, than put up into Casks, or Chests, thence called Cassonnad or Castonnade. It differs in colour, as read, brown, or white, according as it has been more or lesle purified; if refined or made whiter, it is cast into Moulds of a Pyramidal form, which we call Loaves. Sugar-Candy is only Sugar Crystallized; it is made by boiling Sugar in Water to a very high Syrup, than poured into pots, where Sticks are laid across, so let stand some days, and the Sugar-Candy clings fast to those Sticks. The sweetness of Sugar doth proceed from a natural mixture of the Essential acid Salt, and an Oil, for neither of these two substances, if separated, will prove at all sweet: Hence it is so good in infirmities of the Breast and Lungs, by the one it attenuates and cuts Phlegm, by the other it mollifies and smooths the passages, and sharpness of Humours; so 'tis time to leave it, for the general uses in the Shops. Rose. Cant. 2. 1. Isai. 35. 1. N. K. D. P. Rosa. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The yellow threads in the middle of the Rose, are called Anthera; the white which you cut of, when you make the Conserve, Vnguis. The Family of the Roses, are as numerous a Tribe, as any one Flower, I think, whatsoever, and the divers and excellent kinds of them, are one of the chiefest Ornaments almost in every Garden: there are manured, and wild, differing in Leaves and Colour: The variety of the Garden or Manured are w●ll known, especially to the curious Florist, that delights in the propagation of them. I found eleven sorts of Read Roses, described by one Ingenious Florist. And seven of the Damask, or paler-coloured Roses. Three sorts of the Yellow Roses; and, if I mistake not, nine of the White ones. I shall insist on the Read Roses, called Rosa rubra, and on the Damask Roses, called Rosa Damascena vel pallida, and on the White, called Rosa alba, and that in the general, an● not on the different Species of them; for I am no true Florist, nor am I writing a Book of Flowers. Roses are propagated either by inoculation, and Kircker (the learned Pliny of his time) who reproved the 〈◊〉 of Weckerus and Alexius (as by changing the colours of Flowers by steeping Roots in Juices whose colours were desired, yet) tells us confidently of things much like Paradoxes, incredulous and gainsaid by experience, as a White Rose grafted in a Read, will bring a Rosa Mundi, White and Read: also by Suckers; but the surest way is by Layers, first pricking about a Joint (of a Branch that will bend) with an Awl, than p●ess it down and cover it with Earth. do this in the Spring, cover them with well rotten Dung, which will accelerate the sprouting of the Roots, if watered now and than, in dry weather, at Autumn cut of your Layer, next the Mather-Tree, and you have a natural Tree worth ten Budded or Grafted ones. The Branches laid will bring Flowers, as well as the erected Tree: The shearing of the Buds, at first will retard the blowing of Roses, so you may have them▪ when other Flowers are gone: But sheer the whole, or else any part left unsheered, will suck the Nutritive Sap, that should exert new Buds. After your Roses have done bearing, sheer them close to the old Wood, and towards Spring, cut each Branch with a knife close to a Leaf, or Buds, taking the decayed parts away, not keeping them much above a yard high; except the Muskrose, which loves to grow high. Damask-Roses have not been known in England above 150 years. Virtues and Uses. As these perfuming Flowers differ in the kinds so they do in their qualities also; thence Astrologers give the Read Rose to the friendly Planet Jupiter, Damask to Venus, and the White to the Moon. Read Roses are bitter and astringent, they stop Fluxes, and yield a good cooling Cordial. Damask, are bitter, Mucilaginous and Astringent in Sapor, therefore are Purgarive. Sir J. F. The strong smell of Roses shows an Acrimony in them, which helps the bitter Mucilage in purging; Red-Roses have the same Acrimony, yet for want of Mucilage▪ and a higher degree of Bitterness, the binding quality prevails: And 'tis plain it is so, for the bitter Juice in the Roses, whilst fresh, purgeth, but that heat which caused the Bitterness, being vanished by drying of them, their binding quality is advanced, from whence it is evident how much the Virtue of Herbs depends on divers different Principles of Plants, and the Absence of one, or a difference in degree, altars the Virtue considerably; and therefore all Compositions altar the Nature of the Simples much. All this demonstrates, that Roses are (as the old Authors taught) partly earthy, other parts moist and Aqueous, and the rest Airy, and Aromatical, yet all of them are cold, as saith Mesue in the first. And from the preceding Discourse, it appears, how the Read buds do both cool and bind more than the full blown: And how the Red-Roses make the best cooling Cordials, refreshing the Animal and Vital Spirits; either in Conserve, Water, Syrup or Powder, they do strengthen and bind, used in all Fluxes of Blood▪ and humoral Defluxions, Vomitings, Inflammations of the Mouth, etc. The Astringency is lest in Damask-Roses, for the Reason's aforesaid; the Juice, the Infusion, or Decoction of a handful of the Damaskleaves, in Whey, or the Syruy, do purge Phlegm and Choler. One Ounce of the Syrup made with Agarick, will operate more effectually than two or three Ounces of the simple Syrup; it may be taken in Whey. The White-Roses, are thought to be as cooling and binding as the Read, but they are never used, only the distilled Water, is vulgarly used to sore Eyes, though the Read is as good, if not better. The Anohera, or Threads, do greatly bind. In the Red-Roses, there is a better proportioned mixture of their Salt or Sulphur, so more Cephalick and Stomachal. In the paler Roses, the Sulphur and Sult, are over balanced by their moisture, or abounding Mercury, which gives them a more fragrant Smell and Laxity, and the Leaves of these are dried with some difficulty. Nature seems to have bestowed no greater Care on any Flower, the Vegetable Family supplies us with, than the Rose, which one calls the Queen of Flowers, for the beauty and pleasingness of the Colour and Smell; yet Cardinal Caraffa, one of great fame, as Scheneki●s tells us, abhorred the smell of Roses so much, that he stirred not out of doors in Rose-time, and examined all Passengers that came into his House. Such power there is in Smells, that the Ancients ascribed a Divinity to them; and because good Odours cheer the Spirits, and Animal Functions; hence they were used in Temples, both amongst Jews, Gentiles, and Christians: Homer describes his Juno by the sweetness of her Smell, and so doth Virgil his Venus; Ambrosiaeque come divinum vertice odorem spiravere; And so doth Ovid, Mansit Odour, possis scire fuisse The Ancients in their Drinking-matches, used to wear Rose-Garlands, and to lie on Beds of Rose▪ leaves for Refrigeration, Mitte Sectari Rosa quo locoru● ser a moretur, Horat. But there may be some manifest Causes why the Smell of Roses may be offensive; Some Brains are extraordinary cold, some dry, whose olfactive passages are wider than usually; to such the smell of Roses may be hurtful, because a Rose hath but a weak heat, rather refrigevative, (as Dioscorides thinks) which may comfort the hot, but not the cold Brain. In a dry Brain, and wide passages, the Odour doth too suddenly affect it, and so disturb it by a king or otherwise; but Histerical Women, fight, and are disturbed at them, and other sweet Odours, because the Matrix delighteth in such Smells, and doth rise towards them, to the danger of Suffocation; whereas it is suppressed by strong and unpleasant Odours. But the Rose deserves also the prime place in the Family of Flowers, not only for its beauty, form, and odoriferous Scents, but because it is the Honour and Ornament of our English Sceptre, as appeareth in the uniting of the two Royal Houses of York and Lancaster, and claims the chiefest places in Crowns and Garlands: And the Turks have that Estimation for Roses, that they frown to see the Leaves of them fall to the Ground, because one among them dreamt, the first Rose sprang from the Blood of Venus; and other Mahomet ans say it arose from the Sweat of Mahomet. But that which adds to its deserts and preference, among Flowers, is because it supplies Physic and Pharmacy with good Employment and Medicines: For one exact Author, that hath examined all ancient and modern Physicians, reckons up 37 several Operations, single or compound, which this noble Flower lends to their Art; therefore I wonder the Greeks should give the Name of Flower (〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in their Language) to the Rosemary Flower by Antonomasia, a Rhetorical Speech, (putting one Name for another) and as it were by Excellency, since this Flower doth not furnish us with so great a Harvest of Remedies, as now you'll found the Rose doth. In the Shops. 1. Dried Roses, Read, and Damask. 2. Lignum Rhodium. 3. distilled Water of all three sorts. 4. Syrup of Roses Solutive. 5. Syrup of Roses with Agarick. 6. Syrup of Roses with Hellebore. 7. Syrup of Roses with Senna. 8. Syrup of the Juice of Roses. 9 Syrup of dry Roses. 10. Honey of Roses foliated. 11. Honey of Roses colated. 12. Honey of Roses solutive. 13. Honey of Roses common. 14. Conserve of Red-Roses. 15. Conserve of Damask-Roses. 16. Julap Alexandrin. 17. Julap. Rosatum. 18. Vinegar of Roses. 19 Electuary of the Juice of Roses. 20. Species Elect. Rosat. Noveilae. 21. Diarrhodon Abbatis. 22. Sugar of Roses. 23. Aloes Rosated. 24. Aromaticum Rosatum. 25. Spirit of Roses. 26. Oil of Roses Chym. 27. Oil of Roses Omphacine. 28. Oil of Roses Complete. 29. Ointment of Roses. 30. Ol. Lign. Rhodii. These are all appointed by the Honourable and most Learned College of Physicians, in their Pharmacopaea Londinensis, or London Dispensatory of the last Edition, which are denominated from the chiefest Ingredient in them, Roses: Besides which there are several other Preparations of them in other old Dispensatories, and Chemical Authors, as Essence of Roses, etc. Tincture of Roses. The Uses of the Water, Syrup, Conserve, Sugar, Honey, and Oil of Roses, are not only well known by every Practitioner, but also to all Understanding Gentlewomen, and ordinary People; And for the rest, I'll leave them to the Investigation of Tyro. And though the Number, at the first sight, may seem to be almost enough to fill a Country Apothecary's Shop, yet it must must not be thought, that all these Preparations are kept ready in every Shop, but such as are most commonly used, and prescribed by Physicians on the place. I shall only observe, that whereas Conserve, and Sugar of Roses, of old, were celebrated Remedies in Consumptions, insomuch as some emaciated and ptisical Bodies, have been said to have been restored, or long preserved by the Use of them; so still in these days doth the Conserve (especially if three or four Year old) keep its famous Reputation among Practitioners, as well as good Women, and others, being the Basis of many Prescriptions, and Balsamic Eiectuaries, used in Consumptions and other Diseases. But the Apothecary, and others ought (that these Cordial Flowers may the better yield those virtuous Advantages, which Nature hath placed in them) to be careful and circumspect, as to the time, in which Roses are to be gathered; which seems to be most proper before Sunrising, or a little after break of Day, when they yet retain some small remains of the Balsamic Moisture, which the cool of the Night, did as it were gather and concentrate, both without and within these Flowers; but be sure not after a rainy Day, especially when you intent them for Conserve, or to dry them: Nor ought they to be gathered long after the Rising of the Sun, because that Universal Planet, seems greedily to suck the Balsam and Nectar of all the Flowers, which are of an aetherial and delicate Substance, as Roses are, above all others. Rue. Luke 11. 24. N. K. D. P. Ruta. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Garden Rue, called Ruta Hortensis, vainly called by Rustics Herb of Grace, needs no Description. Wild Rue, or Ruta Sylvestris, is much lesle every way; there are other Herbs called also Rue, as Goats-Rue Galega; Meadow-Rue called Thalictrum; Wall-Rue Ruta Muraria, which is Adianthum album, or White maidenhair, called also Salbiae Vitae; this fast grows in the Garden-walls of the old Abbey de la Cruse, near Leek in this County, where I have often seen it. Garden Rue prospers best in stony Soil, or where Ashes are the Manure, for it's not pleased with Dung, and requires the Sun; it is propagated by Seeds, Cuttings, and easily by Slips. It is a great enemy to the Toad as it is to Poison, and old Pliny saith it thrives best near the Figtree, which doth meliorate it for Medicine. Virtues and Uses. This excellent Balsamic, Solar, Vegetable, is hot and dry in the 3o. under the Sign Leo, the Sun's House; it's of subtle parts, strongly discussing Wind, cutteth and digesteth, so hot in Taste, and acrid, that it will almost blister the Lips upon chewing it, and scent a large Room with its strong rank Smell. Mithrilates King of Pontus in Asia, (who invented Mithridate) who lived in Pompey's days, is recorded to admire the Leaves of Rue, being mixed with Figs, Walnuts, and a little Salt, as an incomparable Antidote; this Learned Prince did particularly apply his Mind to the knowledge of things to resist Poison, and took the aforesaid Mixture, or a dose of his Mithridate, every Morning fasting, insomuch that when he was over come by Pompey, jest he should fall into his hands, he endeavoured to Poison himself, but his Constitution being rendered Poyson-proof, he commanded a Slave to run him through; but his Receipts were found by Pompey, in his Coffers; and Damocrates, Physician to Mithridates, writ poetically on them, as you may see, Galen, lib. 2. de Antidote. Moore concerning this famous Prince you may read in Plutarch, Appian, and others. We accounted Rue also to be Cephalick, respecting the Genus Nervosum, and the Womb. It is an Ingredient in Plague-Waters; I have found it excellent in Clysters in the dolorous Colic, and very often have experienced its Goodness to destroy Worms in Children, and have seen some strong Bodies eat it with Bread and Butter, for to kill the Maw-worms as they call them, and against Wind and Colic. I have given some drops of the Juice fasting to Infants and other Children, which have cured and prevented Convulsion Fits, and sometimes the Powder of the Leaves dried, but not too near the fire, but more often I have prevented and cured convulsive and other peculiar nervous and histerical Maladies, by a Preparation of it advanced by the Noble Chimia. And at the writing hereof have cured a Neighbour's little Son, whose Fits were Epileptical, and very terrible to behold, having but two Fits after the first Dose of this Medicine; And that after other successless Medicines. The Learned Sir J. F. gives us the following, as Sir Theodor Mayhern's Receipt, with which he cured Convulsions; Give half a Spoonful of the Powdered Leaves of Rue, for nine days, in drink fasting, and at Night 24 Grains of the same: Take White-Henbane-seeds two Ounces, Sugar half an Ounce, make it into Powder, take twenty Grains of it in a Spoonful of the Syrup of House-leek for forty days, especially at the Full and New-Moon. Bath the Feet in the following Decoction, and wash the Temples and Forehead: Take Rue and Henbane-roots each a handful, boil them in Spring-water for a quarter of an hour, and so make a Bath: Take White-wine one pound two ounces, Juice of Rue, inward Bark of Elder, and the Leaves, of each two Ounces; boil them in the Wine to half the quantity, than take two or three Spoonfuls in the Morning fasting: The whole Virtue of these Medicines lies in Narcotick Faculty, and the Rue. These Medicines being easily made, I have inserted them here for the good of the plainest Reader. Rue is externally used also with good Success. Take and beaten the White of an Egg to Oil, Leaves of Rue beaten to a Conserve, and mix them well, and apply them on a Pledget of Lint or Flax, to any Bruise in or about the Eye, is an excellent Pultiss, and as it's used internally in all Pestilential Fevors, and malign Affects, both to preserve and cure, so is it successively used in venomous Bites, Carbuncles, and has been applied to the Wrists, with Bay-salt in Agues, and to the Feet, with Rhadishes, Salt, Black-soap and Vinegar, beaten up to a Cataplasm in the highest Fevours, for Revulsion sake. Wild-Rue, called also Harmel, is hotter, causeth Blisters, and is not to be used in Meat or Medicines. Goats-Rue is hot, and Alexipharmick also. Lemnius instit. cap. 58. admires Rue, and commends it to have an excellent Virtue, to expel vain Imaginations, Devils, and to ease afflicted Souls; this sure he fancies it might do by Corroborating, and Rectifying the Aberration of the Animal Oeconomy, and Functions of the Brain. In the Shops. The simple distilled Water: The Seeds of Rue: The Conserve of the Leaves: The Ointment of Rue, and Oil of Rue. Dr. Willis in his Chapter of Convulsions in adult Persons, recommends the Conserve of the Leaves fresh made, with equal parts of Sugar, for the poorer sort of People, and orders the quantity of a Nutmeg to be taken twice a day, drinking after it a draught of the Decoction of the Seeds and Roots of Burdock, made in Whey, prepared with White-wine. The Oil of Rue kills Worms, being used to the Belly, expels Wind, good in Palsies, withered Limbs, Cramps, cold Aches, and is used with good Success in Clysters in the Colic. vid. pulv. Anticolicus Batean. Rush. Rushes. Job 8. 11. Is. 9 14. & 19 15. & 37. 7. N. K. D. P. juncus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Holyghost mentions it as a Vegetable in but two of the quoted Texts; and in the other it is used Metaphorically, by which the lest of the Wicked Tribe are threatened to be cut of, and extirpated. See Bulrushes. This disregarded Vegetable is well known in all its kinds. The common hard Rush is called Juncus acutus vulgaris: The common soft Rush is Juncus taenis paniculâ sparsa major. The flowering Rush is Juncus floridus seu Gladiolus Palustris. Moss- Rush is Juncus acutus Cambro-Britannicus, called Goose-Corns, growing in Mountainous and Moorish places, as in the Moorlands and Wales. But we have a more Medicinal Rush, called Scaenanthus, Squinanthus, or Juncus Odoratus, Scaenath or Camels-hay, which grows naturally in Arabia, Syria, and in Eastern Regions; and 'tis thence brought to our Druggist's: If any out of Curiosity have with difficulty raised it by the help of their hot Conservatories here, yet I believe, it seldom or never lasteth, or cometh to flower. Virtues and Uses. Rushes are of an earthy and aqueous Essence, as the ●ogs and moist places they grow in seems to indicate, tasting rough and raw, as they smell, belonging, 'tis like, to that infortunate Planet Saturn. They may bind and be soporiferous as Bulrushes, but are more useful to the Milkmaids, Basket, and Mat-makers, than to the Materia Medica: They serve the Tallow-chandlers, especially the Juncus laevis Vulgaris, called Candle-Rush, or common soft Rush, for Watch-Lights; also are used very beneficially to cover Cabins, Sheds, and Thatch with, and when dried, are plaited for divers Uses, Frails, Matting to face Walls, Benches; and a Rarity not far of me at Parkhall, is a Rope that passes between the runners of the Oat-mill, made only of the Peelings or Rinds of Candle-Rushes, which doth not only last longer than one of Hemp, burr will not stretch as Hempen ones do, which is a great convenience in the working of such kind of Mills. Bulrushes make Bosses and Bed-mats best. And thus we see, the meanest of Vegetables may be useful one way or other to Mankind; For the Great Creator made not one thing in vain. Sweet Rush, Camels-hair, or Scaenanth, is meanly hot, somewhat Astrictive and Aromatic, smelling like a Rose, by its thin parts discusseth, openeth Obstructions in Women, Liver, Spleen, and discusseth inflations of the Stomach; it is useful in the pain of the Reinss, Bladder and Womb, in pissing and spitting of Blood. Outwardly it corrects Ulcers of the Mouth, and Tumours of the Wula, and strengtheneth the Stomach, Womb and Head: It is seldom used by Physicians in their ordinary Prescriptions, but is to be found in several Compositions. In the Shops. Scaenanth. It is an Ingredient in Treacle, Mithridate, Emplast●●m, Histericum, etc. Rye. Exod. 9 32. Isa. 28. 25. N. K. D. P. Spelta. Zea. Mun. & Tr. Vulg. Secale Siligo Veterum. Muncorne, is called Farrago. Rye is known in all the Christian World, and is of divers sorts, yet not so many as Wheat; besides the more common kinds, there is the Hybernum vel majus. It grows so plentifully in Denmark, Germany, and especially in Poland, whence 'tis sent down the Weysel to Dantzick, and thence transported to other Countries; nay England itself hath been often relieved by it in times of Dearth and Scarcity. Virtues and Uses. Rye is more forcible in heating than Wheat, because through its Clamminess and Moistness it is lesle easy for Digestion, yet yields good Nourishment to Rustic Bodies; It's general Use is to make Bread, alone, or mixed with Wheat, (so called Muncorn, or Masiline, by some) with which it is often Sown, as well as alone; it makes Bread moist, and gives it a pleasant Taste to most Appetites. Through its clammy M●silage▪ Rye bread is not good in obstructed Bodies, Hypochondriack Cases, Melancholy, Dropsy, and the Scurvy, arising from the thick Blood; bad for those that are apt to the Grief called vulgarly Heartburning. It is more Nutritive than that made of Barley, more solid, course and dispeptick than that of Wheat. The Leaven of Rye is best for Vesicatories, the Meal being more moistening▪ than Wheat-meal in Pultisses, it digests, ripens, breaks, and draws all Apostems and Biles better than Wheat. Rye delights in d●y sandy warm Land, usually termed Rye-land, it is quickly up, sooner in the Ear, (usually in April) and sooner ripe than other Grain, being Sown as Wheat in Autumn, and some in March; but if I mistake Johannes de Monte will correct me, a most Loyal Skilful Husbandman. Saffron. Can. 4. 14. N. K. D. P. Crocus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Zahafaran. Arab. True Saffron is called Crocus verus, sive Sati●us Autumnalis; It is the Spica Cilissa Poetarum, Ovid. This most excellent Vegetable hath many kindred, differing in their▪ Praenomen, Nature, Figure, Colour and Places, many of which are propagated in the Gardens of curious Flowerists, and other Gardens for their rarity; being▪ wild and bastard Saffrons, as the Crocus Vernus, or Spring Saffron, of which is many sorts, The Colchicums, or Meadow▪ Saffron; The wild bastard Saffron, called Attractilis, or Distaff-Thistle: Carthamus sive Cnicus, is also a bastard Saffron, manured in Spain, Italy, and other places, called with us Spanish Saffron. Crocus Indicus, growing naturally in the Eastern Regions, is Curcuma, or. Turmerick in the Shops. Our true English Saffron is well known, and is nothing but the small strings or threads, (like Anther●e) which grows in a fiery coloured Tuft in the middle of the Flower, being two or Chi●es which grow upright, and must be gathered early in the Morning, else it returns into the body of the Flower again. The gathering of it in Cambridge shire, Suffolk, Essex, and at Saffron-Walden, (taking its name from this Vegetable) employs many hands; it is than carefully dried, which may be on a small Kiln made of Clay, with a very little fire, three pounds thereof moist, usually making one of dry. It is propagated by the Roots, which are bulbous, and do multiply yearly in the Ground, and at three Years end many Roots are obtained, and them usually Transplanted about Midsummer, being set by a Line in Trenches, two or three Inches deep, and as far asunder; but the Bed between the Trenches is five or six Inches broad, that it may be the better weeded with a Haw. It flowers in September, and remains green all the Winter; the Management of one Acre may cost about 4 l. which may bring from seven to fifteen pound of Saffron; and it hath been sold from 20 s. a Pound to 5 l. a pound weight, such Improvement and Advantage is made thereof. It is our Negligence that it is not more propagated (being a Plant very suitable to our Climate and Soil, delighting in good, dry, sound Land, well Tilled) amongst us; so that we might not be obliged to Spain, or any other foreign Place for it, but rather furnish them out of our own Stores. Virtues and Uses. Saffron is a Solar Herb under the Sign Leo, thence Astrologers pled for its Cordial Virtue. It is said to be hot in the 2ᵒ. and dry in the 1ᵒ. but the hot quality doth so over▪ rule in the best Saffron, that in the whole Essence of it, I judge it to be hotter. Our own English Saffron is esteemed the best in the World; it expels Venom from the Heart, strengthens the Stomach, and furthers Digestion, quickeneth the Senses, concocteth raw Humours in the Chest, and opens the Lungs; proper in Malignant Cases, Feigntings, Histerical Fits, and expelleth the Months and Child; It often cureth the Jaundice, and excellent in Consumptions and Asthma, being chief Cardiack and Pulmonick. It will effectually do the Heart more good, (saith a late ingenious Author) than a thousand precious, or not precious Stones, whither they come from the Indieses, or are trod under our Feet. The Stones are Cordials accidentally, not essentially; They serve as natural and good Alkalies to absord that Acidity in the Body, which sometimes causeth grievous Pains and Oppressions. But Saffron is intrinsically, and in its proper Nature an admirable Cordial, of the first rank; and it is pity the Turks and Barbarians should esteem it better than us, who are beholding to Providence for the best in the World. Nay, Dodon●us esteemed it such a Cordial Virtue, as too opine; it can bring back Consumptive People, for several days to Sense and Life again, when they are just departing, and in their last Agony; if ten Grains or a Scruple be given in Wine: Yet taken immoderately it is injurious to the Head, and perverts Functions of the Brain; It will so dissipate the Spirits, ut in magnâ quantitate sumptus mortem inferre valeat, That it will kill, like a Poison, when used beyond measure. Some say two drams taken, brings death, and the common People think a small Sprig of Saffron will do the same, if it should go to the Heart, which is true enough in a sly Sense; for when that which is impossible is done, when a Sprig hath passed through the Concoction of the Stomach, through the small passages of the Vena Lacte●●, and the Ductus Thoracicus into the Veins, and has slipped through such Valleys, as will only receive a certain sort of Liquor, when all this is done, it will be a Poison sure enough as also when the Sky falls we shall catch Larks. Many of the best and most serviceable things in the Creation, for want of a due Disquisition into the Intrinsic Nature, and regular Use of them, become oftentimes great Enemies, and most disserviceable to us purblind Mortals; and this in the Medicinal Province occurs often. Thus Saffron, by the too frequent and lavish Use thereof in the Smallpox, hath posted several to their long homes; for by its expulsive force, and strong Cordial Energy, it is as a pair of Bellowss, or Fuel to the Inslammatory Particles, which molest the Blood, in the beginning of this destroying Disease: And thereby the Feverish Ebullition is exalted too high, even sometimes to a Frenzy; and Nature hurried to a violent Expulsion of the Morbific Matter, which she is as it were suffocated with, having not time to perform a due Separation; Or if the Patient should bear through it with Head and Shoulders, as we use to say; yet a cruel, indistinct, confluent, Pox, with most dangerous Symptoms, doth besure consequently to harrass and torture the Body, and Taint the Blood of the Patient. And this, as I have often observed, is the Effects and Product, not only of Saffron as 'tis vulgarly used, but also Mithridate, dioscordium, Treacle-water, and other hot Cordials. Indeed the whole World is beholden in his rebus, and ought never to forget the Industry and practical Discoveries of the Worthy and Learned Dr. Sy●enham, who did make it a great part of his Study and Practice to conquer this grievous Disease; who saith, That the longer Nature is in working and perfecting Separation, so the Ebullition be not quite dulled and impeded, so much more certainly and universally the Separation i● performed; for of a forced Expuision, by a hot Regimen▪ or by hot Cordials comes no good, as from overhasty Fruit no true nor certain advantage; And I shall only to confirm his Sentiments. say, That I have, (in my poor Practice) in some Years past, more especially in the late Epidemical Year 87. found wondered good Success in the Smallpox, by advising the People to a cold Regimen, and not to use Saffron, and other hot Cordials, as they are want extravagantly to do. The Limners, Confectioners, etc. use Saffron to Colour with. In the Shops. Saffron, Spirit and Tincture of the same. The Powder called Diacrocuma. Oxycroceum Plaster, Carthamus' Seeds. Electuarium Diacarthamum▪ but in the last Edition the College say f. Tabell. oleum Crocinum Hermodactils. The Spirit and Tincture are great Cordials, a small Spoonful is a Dose; Diacrocuma is excellent in cold Distempers of the Stomach, Liver and Spleen, Dropsies, Jaundice, and helpeth Digestion, Green sickness, and is Diuretic; it is also made into Electuar. Carthamus' Seeds brought over Sea, the Kernel or middle parts of the Seed have a purgative Virtue, and they are ranked by Authors in the Phlegmagogue Class of Purgers. The Electuary Diacarthamum purgeth strongly Choler and Phlegm; excellent in the Gout, and kills Worms. Hermodaclils are a hard, white, s●at, and solid Root, of Meadow-Saffron, rather from Colchis, than of our own Country; though the true Hermodactils is either the iris tuberosa of Nath. and Lobel. or the Syrian Meadow Saffron. They are hot and dry in the 2ᵒ. offend the Stomach, yet do very bravely draw tough Phlegm, and clammy Humours from the Joints; and therefore, according to Paulus, it is dedicated to gouty Maladies. The Oil Crocinum, or of Saffron, warms, molisies, gives ease to, and greatly strengthens the Nerves: The Use of Oxycroceum is very well known to the meanest sort of People. There is the Extract of Saffron kept in some Shops, for the Use of some Physicians, as there is Syrup de croco Batean. In the Smallpox, a Linen Rag boiled with half a dram of Saffron in the Water of Rue, than dried and worn under the Chin▪ during the Distemper, was used by Dr. Bates, in Pharm: But let every one do as they list, I know what I think. Shittah-Tree. Shittim-wood. Ex. 25. 5, 23. & 26. 15, 37. & 27. 1, 16. & 30. 1, 5. & 35. 24. & 36. 31, 36. & 37. 1, 25. & 38. 1. 6. Deut. 10. 3. Isa. 41. 19 N. K. D. P. Cedrus Lectissima Jun. & Tr. It is a certain place, as you may found in Jos. 2. 5. as well mentioned as a Vegetable, and in Joel 3. 18. it is called the Valley of Shittim, and I supposed is used metaphorically for the Church, or Regions, which God would pour down his Blessings upon in that place. And no doubt it was a fertile place, (for Israel abode there, as in Num. 25. 1.) which are agreed to be Shittah-tree, or Wood, by most Expositors. And Jun. & Trem. call it the Valley Cedrorum Lectiss●marum. This most excellent Wood, was called for by God, (among other precious things) to be brought him as an Offering, it made Tables and Pillars, and other things about the Tabernacle; to conclude, a late Naturalest saith, Choose your Ground and Place proportionable, to the particular Minerva of the native Place of the Exotic Seed or Vegetable you Transplant, if so, the Taurick Cedar, no doubt, would grow here if planted against Walls, etc. Spicknard. Can 1. 12. & 4. 13, 14. Mar. 4. 3. Jo. 12. 3. N. K. D. P. Nardus Jun. & Tr. vulg. Spica Nardj. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Nards are the French, Mountain, and others, some whereof are nursed in some of our curious Gardens. Spicknard is a Root, shooting spiky, hairy stalks, of a yellowish Colour, light, and of a pleasant Smell. It grows naturally in the East-indieses, and brought from Germany and other Countries; it is of two sorts Spica Indica, or Indian Spicknard, being the chiefest in use: And Spita Cel●ica, or Celticknard, from 〈◊〉 Cel●ica▪ a Name formerly of a Province in Spain, (so named from the River Boe●is running through it, and Celti●● the ancient Inhabibitants thereof, now called Extremadura) which Country formerly did, and now still doth yield much of this Vegetable. These Nards are called Spica, from their likeness to Spike, or a larger sort of Lavender, growing in Germany, called the Male, and our Lavender is is the Female; and thence called Pseudonardus, and Lavendula a Lavo, because of a perfuming Scent▪ it was used in Baths and Washeses for the Body and Hands. Virtues and Uses. Nardus Celtica, or Celtic▪ Nard, is hot and dry, bitter, Aromatic, and Astringent; it is weaker than the Indian Nard, which is some what stronger, in the same quality, and more efficacious in its Virtues; they are Stomachical, discuss Wind, dry up Defluxions, stop Fluxes of the Intestines and Matrix, used in the Stone, being Diuretic, and much used in Antidotes. In the Shops. Indian Nard, vulgarly Spicknard, and Celticknard. Oil of Nard simple, Oleum Nardinum, and the compound Oil, which is made as the former, with the Addition of some Aromaticks; These are externally prescribed to heat, and digests, resists cold and windy Distempers in any part of the Body, so may help (anointed on the Backbone) Palsies, Tremble, Vomiting, Rickets; Obstructions of the Hypochondries, Barrenness and Abortion. Sycomore-Trees. Sicamine-Trees. 1 K. 10. 27. 1 Chr. 27. 28. 2 Ch. 1. 15. & 9 27. Ps. 78. 47. Is. 9 10. Luk. 17. 6. & 19 4. N. K. D. P. Sycomorus, Sycaminus. 'Tis in a former Translation called, in Luk. 17. 6. a Mulberry-tree, but in this last a Sycamine-tree. Sycomore with us, saith Mr. Evelyn, is falsely so called, being our Acer majus, greater Maple. And the true Sycomore, is ficus Pharaonis, or Egypt, Pharaoh's Figtree, or Fig tree of Egypt; called also from its similitude in Leaves and Fruit, Morosycus or Mulberry Figtrees. There is another sort of them, called Sycomorus Silvestris, or ficus Cipria, Sycomore of Cyprus, or Cyprus Figtree; the Fruit being smaller, but sweet as Figs, growing in Cyprus, Caria, Rhodes, and in those parts. These Trees fructify three or four times in a Year, and a kind of Bread hath been made of the Fruit, and they yield a milky Juice, potable, as Betula, or Birch-Tree. The Sycomore with us, being it seems related to the Maple, leaves an imperfect Fruit, called Pods, or Cat-keys, from which it is propagated, being Sown when Ripe, and falling, coming up plentifully the next Spring: Succours also, and Sets from the Tree will grow, being planted in moist Ground, not too dry, or watered at the first, delighting rather in light, than dry Land. Virtues and Uses. Our Sycomores are raised more for Ornament, (they affording a curious dark and pleasant Shadow) and for their speedy growth, than for any Medical Property; yet Astrologers record it as one of Venus her Trees, 'tis like to make her a shady Walk to cool her Beauty, and prevent Sun▪ burning. The Bark is bitterish, rough, and the Leaves also are Mucilaginous; it is some what Astringent like Maple, saith Sir I. F. I know no Medicinal Uses of it, but being Tapped, it will yield a sweetish Juice like the Birch-tree, and not much unlike it in Taste, as I have tried: And it would be no great labour, nor cost, to prepare a small quantity of it as they do Birch Wine, (for a Trial) which is now so frequently made, (in this Northern part of Stafford-shire, Cheshire, and many other places where Birch-Trees grow plentifully) and that so highly, vinous and spirituous, that it hath passed for a sort of foreign Wine. The Timber of Sycomore, is light, tough, not much inferior to Ash, yields good Fuel, and sit for several Mechanic Uses, as the Joiner's, Turner's, Trencher-makers, and others, can best tell. The Keys and Leaves are easily turned, when fallen, into Mucilages and Sliminess; so prejudice the curious Walks, by which they grow, as I have heard Gardeners and others complain: And to walk or sit, especially Sleep under the shade of this Tree, was by the Ancients accounted unwholesome; but now the common Use of it hath exploded that conceit. St. Hierom affirms, He saw the Sycomore that the Dwarf, Zacheus, climbed up in, to behold the press and crowd of People; I could wish he had given us a Description of it, for the Encouragement of my Reader to try Sycomore Juice, where Birch cannot be had, I shall set down the Receipt of Birch-Wine. As it is prepared by some, particularly by a good Family in the Morelands, where it was good, and stronger than any I ever drank, for I meet with it very often abroad. Take of the Birch Liquor, thirteen Gallons to the Dozen, boil away the odd Gallon, than put in of clear fine white Sugar two Pound, for every Gallon, that is twenty four Pound, and boil it again so long, is to fetch out the scum and filth of the Liquor and Sugar: Let it than stand a while, and scum▪ it, ●f need be; so put it together, in any cool place, ●n one Vessel, and when cold, put a little Barm to 〈◊〉, but not too much, and let it be a Week in working, stirring once every day; and than Tun it, and 〈◊〉 it stand to work at the Bunghole, if it will, if not, stop it up close: And after a quarter of a Year, or more, draw it out into Bottles, Corked well up. Observe, That you draw your Liquor from the Tree, in the latter end of February, or about the Vernal Equinox, when the Sap ascends, before the Spring of the Leaf, though I have known it done ●n April. It runs most freely when the Wind is South or West, or the Sun shine warm; but not so if the Wether be very cold, or in the Night time. Some have reported, a Birch-Tree will yield in twelve or fourteen days, it's own weight in Liquor; I shall not affirm, nor deny it, but 'tis most evident a few Trees will yield a vast quantity in a few days; I have seen above twelve Bottles hung at one Tree. Observe, 2ly. That a wet Season is bad to gather it in, for the lest Rain-water in your Liquor and Bottles, weakens and spoils the Liquor. Observe, 3ly. That a new Barrel is best, but howsoever, burn a Match or two of Brimstone within your Vessel before you Tun it, which is a Secret. Tares. Matth. 13. 25. etc. [See Fitches and Pulse.] N. Vicia Sylvestris, sive Cracca: Some are Sown, though not usually, in most places of England, and benefit the Land as other Pulses, and are rather to be preferred for Fodder, than any other Use they can be put unto: Others are wild, and do no good, but spoil the Corn they spring in, yet feed and advance well, saith one, that are almost starved, and are frequently found in Pastures and Meadows; These wild sorts are called by some Tar-grass. La Romain, or French Tares or Fitches, is annually Sown in France, and other places, very quick of growth, excellent Food for , especially for Horses, eating it in the former part of the Summer, it may be let grow for Hay. Teyl-Tree. Isa. 6. 13. N. K. D. P. Quercus. Jun. & Tr. vulg. Tilia. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Lime-tree, Line-tree, or Tela Hysp▪ Lindentree. This proud Vegetable is distinguished by Tilia mas, sive Sterilis, or the Male, and Tilia Femina sive Major, or the Female Line-tree. The Male, some say, is a finer sort of Elm, never producing any Flowers nor Berries, and hath much smaller Leaves; the Female is divided into a Mayor and Minor; the greater is a large spreading stately Tree, it hath a dark-coloured Bark, fair broad Leaves, greener than Elm-leaves, producing white Flowers and Berries, containing black round Seed. The lesser Female Lime-tree, being smaller leaved, is in some Countries called Bast, because Ropes are made of the Bark thereof; this grows wild in the Woods and Hedges, in Essex and Lincolnshire, and almost equals those brought out of Holland, where there are Nurseries to raise them strait and comely. The Line-tree being the greater Female, delights in a good rich Soil, and thrives not in hungry cold Land; with us in England it is propagated by Suckers, as the Elm, and branches, or from its Berries which drop from it in Autumn: It spreads incredibly in a rich Soil, perfuming the Air, with fragrant odoriferous Blossoms, very pleasant in Walks, and next great Avenues, giving a large delectable Shadow, and now much raised of late Years. These Trees adorn the Highways in Holland, also in Spain and other places; There grow many of them in St. James' Park, and in that at Hampton-Court, and are to be found in most Counties of this Land, about Gentleman's Houses, or elsewhere; for about May the Apothecaries look after the Flowers of them. Virtues and Uses. This graceful Tree belongs also to Venus, for to walk under; It is some what hot and dry, yielding an acrimonious bitterish Taste, both in its Flowers and Bark, which is Mucilaginous; the whole of the Tree being some what Astringent. The Leaves and Bark do dry and repel, boiled for Mouth-waters; It cureth Blisters, Ulcers, and sore Mouths in Children and others: And boiled in Water, especially the Bark, to Mucilage, is excellent in Burn, Scaldings, and hot Wounds, if Clotheses wet therein be applied, and is a great comfort to a scalded Member, if the part be bathed therewith: Also in tumefied Legs and Feet from an inward Cause. The Berries reduced to Powder, stops Dysenteries very strangely, and are greatly extolled in the H●morrahgy of the Nose. Of the filacious matter of the Bark, 'tis said, Cables and other Ropes are made; the Timber is lighter, and to be preferred before Willow, having a better Substance in it, (hence the Remnant of God's faithful People are likened unto it) and excellent long Poles and Ladders have been made thereof, of very great length, (for if they be suffered to mount, (without Topping their Heads, about three Yards high, as is usual, and Set at six Yards, or twenty Foot distance) they become straight, tall and uniform both in height and breadth in a short time, beyond all other Trees.) Also the Wood serves best for Shoemakers Board's to cut their Leather on. And Sculptors and Carvers do more plainly Cut and Engrave all their Pictures and Figures in this Wood, for it is light, fast, and tenacious, cutting easily, and lasting very long, not being obnoxious to Worms. And for its Lightness, Solidity and Fineness, it hath (and still is for aught I know to the contrary) been dignified by the Hands of the Right Honourable the White-staff Officers in His Majesty's Courts. And a Nest of Draw-boxes for an Apothecary have been made of it. To conclude, take the Praises of the famous Cowley of it, being thus translated; The stately Lime, smooth, gentle▪ strait & fair (With which no other Dryads may compare) With verdant Locks, and fragrant Blossoms deck'●, Does a large even, odorate Shade project. In the Shops. The dry Flowers. The Conserve ●lorum Til●ae, and the Water distilled from the Flowers. The Flowers of this Tree are only used in Physic, in the Shops, being a Cordial, and Cephalick, often used in the Falling-sickness, Convulsions, Apoplexies, Megrim, and other affects of the Head and Nerves, are more Cordial, and not so hot, as Lilies of the Valley Flowers; and the Conserve of them may be used, especially in hot Constitutions, instead thereof. The Water called Aq. ●lorum Tiliae, is prescribed in Cordials, good against Trembling and Palpitation of the Heart, in Histerical Cases, and doth raresie concreted Blood from Contusions. For these Flowers are Balsamical, perfuming the Air in June and July, and their odoriferous Blossoms do entertain a mellifluous Army of Bees, saith an ingenious Author, from the Top of the Morning, till the cool and dark Evening compels their return. And Schroder saith, the Coals quenched (or sprinkled) in Vinegar, dissolves clotted Blood; and the Juice or Liquor flowing out of this Tree, being out, is good to prevent the falling of the Hair. And Gunpowder is made in some Countries of the Coals thereof. Thistle. Thistles. Gen. 3. 18. 2 King. 14. 19 Job 31. 40. Hos. 10. 8. Mat. 7. 16. N. K. D. P. Carduus. Spina. Tribulus. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Carduus. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Thistles are a large Generation, distinguished by different Praenomens', and manner of Vegitation, or growth and figure. A sowthistle is called Sonchus: The white Cotton Thistle is Acanthium Album; Bears-breech is a Thistle also, called Branca Vrsina: The soft Thistle Cirsium: The Globe-thistle is Carduus Globosus: The Fuller's or Cloathiers' Thistle or Teazle, called Carduus Fullonum: Star-Thistle, is Carduus Stellatus: The Chameleon Thistle; these are the chief which have many related to them, being of little use as yet, especially in Physic, because the chiefest sort mentioned in our Dispensatories, and that I shall chief insist on, are three as followeth. Carduus Benedictus, or Blessed Thistle: Carduus Lacteus sive Mariae, Lady's Thistle: Carline Thistle, called Carlia, or Carolina, by Charlemagne the first Emperor, whose Army was by this Root, delivered, and preserved from the Plague. I forgot to Name before the remarkable Thistle called Carduus Pa●ustris, or Marsh-thistle, which grows as tall as a Man: The Carline and Blessed Thistles are seldom or never found in England, except manured in our Gardens; and the Carline is the white Chameleon: Carduus Vulgarius & Lanceolatus is well known. Virtues and Uses. Carduus Benedictus, (as most of the Thistles are) is under the Influences of Mars and his Sign Aries: It is hot and dry in the 2ᵒ. of a smoky bitterish Taste, and Mucilaginous, by which nauseating the Stomach, it procures Vomiting: The Vulgar do know this Carduus so well, by their frequent Carduus Possets they boil to vomit and sweated them, being the only popular Pharmacon or Panacaea in many parts of England, that I shall only say 'tis Alexipharmick, Diuretic, cleansing and opening, and so good it is, that 'tis pity the Use of it is so much laid aside by Practitioners, being formerly estimated as one of the best Vegetables in the Febrisugous' Glass. But now Jesuits Bark, the Pulvis Patrum forsooth, a thing not so safe, especially as it is promiscuously and rashly used, as the Only Catholicon in most Diseases) hath josled it out of Doors, and other ancient Antifebrisicks; for all useful and famous Remedies, have had in all times, and still will have a natural Succession in point of Estimation and Use: And I am very apt to opine with another Ingenious Author, that this Bark, as excellent a Remedy as it is in some Cases, may not flourish the Age of a Man in that height of Reputation it has now manifestly gained, for a Cure done by the Bark, doth Contraindicate all Evacuations for a considerable time; It locks up and blunts the Morbi●ick weapons of a Disease, and forces a stop to the nimble Circulation of the Blood and Animal Juices▪ making a perfect Dam and Blockade in the Brain: And where Nature is so irregularly imposed on, a mere Sciolist in these matters, will conclude the Consequences to be dangerous, and oftentimes Mortal. A methodical Management of Diseases, by throughly Eradicating the efficient Cause, is like a Man, and like a Physician that understands his business. Lady's Thistle is hot and dry in the 2ᵒ. under Jupiter, a Friend to the Liver and Blood; the Prickles cut of, they were formerly used to be boiled in the Spring, and eaten with other Herbs; but as the World decays, so doth the Use of good old things, and others more delicate, and lesle virtuous, brought in vogue. The Carline is said to be hot and dry in the Third. The Roots are chief used, having a bitterish Acrimony, something Aromatic, but no pleasing Smell, are Alexipharmick, and Diaphoretic, open the Liver and Spleen, and urinary Passages, and doth not nau●eat the Stomach so much as the former: for there is a bitter Smoakiness in all the Thistles, which inwardly makes them Nauseous and Purgative, and outwardly discussing and clea● 〈◊〉 saith the observing Physician, Sir J. F. In the Shops. Seeds of Carduus Benedictus, the dry Flerb, and also Lady's Thistle dried; the distilled Waters of both, being two of the Antipleuretical Waters: Sal Cardui Benedicti, being the sixth Salt of the Ashes, an excellent Medicine in Intermitting Fevers, and procures Sweat. Star-Thistle, the old Herbals say, is admirable in the Stone and Strangury, and in Pharm. Bat. you have the following Powder, kept as a great Secret. Sir Theod. Mayhern (who got the greatest Estate, it is thought, that was ever got by Physic) was it seems the first Author, (though I have not yet searched for it, in the late Pharmacop. Mayherniae) of this plain, (thence the more despised by some) yet proper and suitable Powder. ●. dry Leaves of Star▪ Carduus, or Star-thistle ℥ i Roots and Seeds of Parsly each ʒiii. dried a part and powdered, than mixed into a fine Powder, a Dose is two Scruples in White▪ wine or Broth, in ●its of the Stone and Gravel, and taken to prevent, etc. Thorns. Gen. 3. 18. Exod. 22. 6. Num. 33. 55. Jos. 23. 13. Jud. 2. 3. & 8. 7. 2 Sam. 23. 6. 2 Chr. 33. 11. Job 5. 5. & 41. 2. Ps. 58. 9 & 118. 12. Prov. 15. 9 & 22. 5. & 24. 31. & 41. 2. Eccl. 7. 6. Can. 2. 6. Is. 5. 6. & 7. 19, 25. & 9 18. & 10. 17. & 32. 13. & 33. 12. & 34. 13. & 55. 13. Ezek. 2. 6. & 28. 24 Hos. 10. 8. Mic. 7. 4. Nah. 1. 10. Mat. 7. 16. & 13. 22. & 27. 29. 2 Cor. 12. 7. Heb. 6. 8. N. K. D. P. Spina. Vepres▪ Virgultum. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Spina. As the Spinous Tribe of Herbs are many, so this of Shrubs and Bushes is very Numerous, as Thorns, Brambles, Briars; which see before, Furze. Haw-thorne or Whitethorn, is called Spina acuta alba, or better, Oxyacantaeus. The Blackthorne or Sloe-bush, is Prunus Sylvestris, or Spinus. The Barberry-bush is Oxyacantha or Berberis, or uva Crespina. Ever green Thorn is Pyracantha: Christ-Thorne, or Jews-Thorne, is Paliurus or Spina Judaica: Buckthorne, or Purging-Thorne, is Spina Cervina, or Rhamnus: These are the chief which grow wild, or propagated in some Gardens. The Exotic Thorns Acacia (quasi acuta) Egypt, or Egyptian Thorn, of which the Acaeia in the Shops; but the Acacia Germanica is much used instead of it. Goats-Thorne, Spina herci, or Tragagantha, from whence Gum-Tragacanth or Dragon flows. And Acacia Pontica, which yields us a sort of Arabic Gum, as the Egyptian▪ thorn also doth; these are all Siliquous Plants, and described in the Leguminous Class. Virtues and Uses. Mars, no doubt, hath listed this armed and wounding Shrub, Haw-Thorne, for one of his Soldiers: The Haws are a pulpy and mucilaginous Fruit, (only used in Physic) are very Astringent, as is the whole Bush. The Haws and included Stones are cried up in the Stone and Gravel, being dried and powdered, the Stones become provokers of Urinal, being joined with the Acid Humours in our Bodies, half an Ounce may be added to the Powder of Star-Thistle. The Powder also of the Fruit, stop Laskes, Uterine Fluxes, and others. This Shrub is not so much used in the Medicinal Art, as it is beneficial to the Husbandmen, being esteemed the best for Fencing; it is raised by Seeds, or young Plants, or Suckers, called Quick-S●tts in some Countries I know; this is the speediest way, though the Seeds, if the place will admit it, is lesle charge, requiring two Springs ere they come up, than after two or three Years; do flourish to Admiration: The Pyracantha has the same Virtues, and yields a strong and firm prickly Fence, and ever green Leaves; It is raised by the bright Caralline Berries, which are found most part of the Winter on the Tree, or by Suckers, or Slips: These Vegetables also yield delight and pleasure, as well as Service to Men; for some make them into delightful Walks, and shear them into Globes, and various forms, resembling Animals and Castles, and other shapes, form Art Topiaria, as it is to be seen at Brewood-Hall in this County. The Blackthorn is binding also, especially the Sloe-Plum, or Bullice, which are frequently eaten about October when frosted; this Tree in its Bark and Leaves is very rough, and somewhat bitterish in the Mouth, whence the Binding quality, but the Fruit (which is but a wlid Plum) is austere and acid, (as all unripe Plums are) and stop and bind the Belly more than Haws: This yields also good Fencing Branches, and is raised as the Whitethorn. Barberries and its Leaves are cold and dry as well as Sloes, the Berries being Acid and Astringent: The Leaves season Meat, as Sorrel, being made into Sauce, and helps hot Stomaches, and would be good Sauce for Jaundiced people Barberry-ba●k, a thing well known, being used much to cure the Jaundice, by the Vulgar, is bitter, slimy and acrid, with a Purgency, by which it purgeth Choler; if the Bark be steeped in Beer, and Sir J. F. saith he tried it in a Choleric Person; And I know it usually opens the Body of those Country People that take it for the Jaundice, and renders them Laxative: The Roots also are excellent in the same case. Jews-Thorne or Christs-Thorne, supposed to be that wherewith he was Crowned, being now propagated with us, has the same Virtues as Whitethorn; This is the Rhamnus Tertius of Dioscorid. It hath been observed that Pears have been grafted on White thorn Stocks, and have eaten not the harder; but let such as do so for want of Pear-stocks, grafted very low, for otherwise the Thorn not growing proportionable to the Graft, will 'cause the Graft to decay, being never able to grow thereon unto the bigness usual in Pear-Trees; There are almost infinite stories of strange Conjunctions, as all Roses continued well and cement naturally upon Briars, as one the Eglantine or Sweet-briar, and Dog-rose: Cherries on Plum-stocks, which is Sir Hugh Platt's way, and Corins upon Gooseberries, as saith Mr. Sharrock. But there are some Stories of Conjunctions, which urge earnestly for credit, some of Incision made upon Animal Bodies: The Lord of Pieresch had a Present made him of a Plum-tree Branch, which bore Blossoms and Leaves, which sprung from a Thorn, that grew in the Breast of a Shepherd, having got it by falling on a Plum-tree: Raw-silk hath grown out on the Eye brow of a Lady, as Borellus tells us, Observe. 10. Cent. 1. being drawn through the Flesh to stirch up the lips of a Wound, and growed so fast as to be frequently ●ut. But enough of this, if not too much. In the Shops. Rob, (and Syrup) Prunellorum Sylvestrium of Sloes, in the form of a Quiddeny, or Marmalade, but if it be inspissated highly, or more solidly thickoned, it is in Germany, and other places, Acacia Germanica, which is also kept in Shops, and is a Sucoedaneum, to the true Acacia of the Ancients, which is Acacia verâ, and is a product of the Exotic Thorns, being an Ingredient into Mithridate and Treacle: These are all Astringent greatly. Rob, Syrup, and Troches of Barberries, which bind not so strongly as the former, but are more pleasant, but the Conserve of Barberries is most in use, which cools hot Stomaches, used in Fevours, Vomitings, Diarrhea's; and causeth an Appetite. These Robs, Syrups, Juices and Conserves, are not to be given to costive Bodies. Syrup of Purging Thorn, or Buckthorne, called Syr. the Spina Cervina, or de Rhamno Solutivo, or by Sir T. M. Syrupus Domesticus, or House-Wife's Syrup, intimating its Usefulness and Harmlessness. This Syrup ought to be made in B. M. as Sir J. F. well observos, (though too often otherwise) so you extract the Virtue and Colour in the Skin, gives it a Read Colour, and purges very strongly from one Spoonful to four. It gripes least if made of ripe Berries; The new Syrup doth purge very violent, and to be used with Caution, but it abates of its strength after two or three Months. The Berries may be taken from Fifteen to Thirty to purge; I knew a Country Fellow once swallowed Sixty, that purged him so much as to weaken him, and was forced to use means to stop it: If they be dried and powdered, it may be given from ʒj. to ʒij. if in Decoction from forty to sixty. Extract. Rhamui S. Closs. doss. gr. viij. in Jusculo. Half an Ounce of the Syrup Acuates a purging Potion bravely, it is not to be given in tender delicate Bodies, though the Berries are sweet at first, yet presently after are bitter, rough, and Mucilaginous, counted hot and dry in the 20. are ripe in September. If any one is minded to take the Berries, they are best boiled in fat Broth, with a little Salt. The Juice of the ripe Berries boiled in Allom-water, coloureth a deep Green; the unripe, Yellow. The Bark of this Thorn tastes much like the Berries, and may be put into Diet-drinks, with Roots of Dwarf-Elder, and Orris, to purge, to which add Daucus, Juniper-berries, and Wormwood, excellent for Hydropical Persons, as is the Syrup: It is not found to grow in every County, so that the Apothecaries are at some trouble to get the Berries. Tree of Life. Gen. 2. 9 Prov. 3. 18. & 11. 30▪ & 13. 12. & 15. 4. Rev. 2. 7. N. K. D. P. Abor vitae, Scientiae. Jun. & Tr. Thya theophra. vulg. Arbour vitae. This is an Exotic Plant, Solar and Aromatical in the hottest Countries, where 'tis a large Tree. It is now propagated with us by some curious Botanists, and is increased by Layers and Slips, for its pleasant green Leaf, being an ever Green, though the cold Winter make it dark and brown; I hear it grows in Mr. Dent's Garden, an Apothecary in Cambridge: And there are six of them in Trentham Gardens, (cut and pruned about the height of a Man) the Seat of the Right Worshipful and Honourable Gen●. Sir I. Leveson Gower, one of our well-deserving Burgesses in Parliament. Virtues and Uses. I shall not enter into a Disquisition, whether this be the Forbidden Tree, for Expositors differ; old Authors say 'tis much like the Wild Cypress Tree, but is more Oleous, Gumous, and Odoriferous, which demonstrates its Tenuity of parts. It is, no doubt, hot and dry; Gerard saith 'tis agreeable to the Nature of Man, and an excellent Cordial, and of a pleasant Smell: Park. saith 'tis Thoracical, and our late and more Authentic Willis makes it Cephalical, and was used to prescribe it to the Poorer sort in Convulsions, ordering the Leaves and Sugar, each equal parts to be beaten to a Conserve, Dose ʒss. ad ʒj. bis in die, with a draught after it, as you may see under Rue. Wisdom and Righteousness are compared to it, in some of the quoted places of Scripture; And no doubt of greater Virtues, than as yet Experience hath taught us: For I found it bitterish, rough, acrid, Aromatical in Taste, much like the Balsamum Gileadense, staying long upon the Tongue. It must needs be a great Diuretic, and highly Balsamical, as the Balm of Gilead is. Vine. Gen. 40. 9 & 49. 11. Deut. 32. 32. & 8. 8. Jud. 9 12. 1 King. 4. 25. 2 King. 4. 39 & 18. 31. & 25. 12. 2 Chr. 26. 10. Job 15. 33. Psal. 80. 8. & 128. 3. Can. 6. 11. & 7. 12. Isa. 5. 2. & 16. 18. & 24. 7. & 32. 12. & 61. 5. Ezek. 5. 2. & 17. 6, 8. & 19 10. Hos. 10. 1. & 14. 17. Joel 1. 7, 11. Mic. 4. 4. Nah. 2. 2. Zec. 3. 10. Mal. 3. 11. Matth. 26. 29. Joh. 15. 1. Jam. 3. 12. Rev. 14. 18. N. K. D. P. Vitis. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Vulg. The Manured Vine is Vitis Vinefera. The Wild Vine is Vitis Sylvestris: vel Labrusca, the Fruit, or a Grape is Racemus or Wa: The Seeds Ar●lli: The Leaf Pam●inus: The dried Grapes, or Raisins of the Sun, Passul●● Solis, of which see before. The Stalk is Scapus Warum: The Limpid Juice or Tears, which issue when Tapped in the Spring, are called Lacrym●e Vitis: The Branches Sarmenta: The new pressed Juice, Mustum: Juice of unripe Grapes, Omphacium. I shall not stand particularly to denote the Names, the different sorts, description and places of Vines, Grapes and Wines, there being variety both of the Manured and Wild kinds, which produce Fruit and Wines, distinguished and altered by their Names, Qualities, Properties, Colour and Gust, according as the Soil and Climate differ; for among all the Vegetables, that yield any Liquor and Fruit for the Use of Man, the Vine claims the Precedency, being esteemed by Ancient Philosophers, the King of this Vegetable Kingdom, as Man is of the Animal, and Gold of the Mineral: And there are very few Countries in the World, that do not enjoy the delicious Fruits of this most excellent Plant. Vines are propagated by Stems, Cuttings, or Slips, and it is esteemed a great defficiency, that they are not more propagated in this Island than they are; many opine they would do well, if planted in Vineyards, as they do in France; and some tell us of Vineyards in Norfolk, at Ely, and in Gloucester-shire, heretofore: And Mr. Hartlib tells us of One at Great Chart, in the Wild of Kent, that made six or eight Hogsheads of Wine yearly. Not doubt our Grapes will afford good Wine, if they can be brought to such Maturity, as some Years they do on House sides. But those annual Casualties, and Inconveniences, that attend the Situation of a Vineyard, arising from the Sun, Wind and Wether, are the Impediments and Discouragements; for any Wind in the Summer Refrigerates, and prevents the Ripeness of the Grapes, which are perfected by the Sunbeams, and accelerated by the warmth, richness, and lightness of the Soil. But seeing we have not Conveniency for, or will not have Vineyards; it may prove a very considerable Advantage, saith Mr. I. W. to Plant Vines on the South East and West sides of our Houses, Barns and Walls, and by good Culture and Pruning, they will yield a very considerable Increase: A well Pruned Vine hath produced several Bushels of Grapes, when the same neglected hath yielded very few. The choice of Grapes is also very necessary; Mr. Hartlib commends the Parsly-grape, the Rhenish-grape, the Paris-grape, and the small Muscadel, as most suitable to our Climate; but the Curran-grape, or Cluster-grape, is both the earliest and sweetest of Grapes, although the Clusters are but small: And if we cannot make so good Wine as the Foreign is, yet it may be converted to Vinegar, and prove of great Advantage. But Colonel Blunt and many others have had good Vineyards here, of about two or three Acres of Ground, and sold many Hogsheads to the Vintners. If all Gentlemen would have but as much Wine, as they might make of their own Ground, to serve their Houses, they would not be so much beholding to France, and other places as they are, and have so little thanks for it. And in making the Wine, remember to pull out all the hard and unripe Grapes, and the green Stalks of the Vine, before you press your Grapes, for 'tis that makes their Wine so rough and unwholesome, and often sowers so soon; for here has been as good Wine drank in England, of English Fruit, as ever came out of France, both for small Wine like Champeigne, and a high Wine like Burgundy. Sir H. Littleton, at Over-Arly, has made Wine so good, not to be distinguished from the best French-wines. Virtues and Uses. Astrologers give this useful and noble Plant to the Sun, and no doubt it hath great Influence over it, as appears by the gradual Exaltation, and Depauperation of its Spirituous Juice, according to the degrees of Heat and Cold, in all Countries it's propagated and grows in. The Leaves and Tendrils are acid and rough, do cool and bind, excellent in Lotions for hot Ulcers in the Mouth, and in Drinks, and cooling Broths, against heat of the Stomach, Fluxes, Vomitings, Bleedings: The Tears boiled with Sugar into a Syrup, is a Medicine that an Eminent Midwife of this County gave to her Breeding Women, to stay their Long and Vomiting. The Tears also have Virtue to expel the Stone and Gravel, and is a Cosinetick. Sour Grapes, unripe, are cold and moist, acid, austere and rough; sweet and ripe Grapes hot and moist; The Stones are drier and binding. My Lord Bacon saith Grapes will continued fresh and moist all the Winter long, if you hung them Cluster by Cluster in the Roof of a warm Room, especially if when you gather the Cluster, you take of with the Cluster some of the Stock. The Cineres Clavellati, or Vine Ashes, i e. of the Branches, Tendrils, and winding Shoots burnt, are used in Lixiviums in the Stone and Dropsy, and to prepare Caustick Medicines; also excellent to whiten black Teeth if rubbed therewith: It's Virtues arise from the sixth Salt. Wine Vinum, is made out of the sweet subacid Juice of the Ripe Grape, exalted by Fermentation; the Acid is evident to sense, and an Oil produces the Sweetness. The brisk Effervescence of Wines (which work without any additional Ferments) own their fermentative Motion, to the quick and inbred struggle of their Native Acid and Sulphur: The Superfluity of which two Principles complicated with a Volatile Salt, together with other Heterogeneous things, as Scum, different sort of Fruit, etc. are by the Internal Agitation of all the parts rejected and precipitated into that Form or Faces we call Tartar, or Argal: The remaining essential Principles from a genuine Wresiling, compose an equal Temper, and generous potable Liquor, sc. Wine. The like may be said of all other fermentative Liquors, such as Ale, Metheglin, R. Cider, Sugars dissolved in Waters, but some of those will not easily Ferment per se, but require an additional Ferment, to excite their implanted Acidum, and Sulphur, into that brisk Motion, which we call Working or Fermentation. Must is the pressed Juice, or a sweet Liquor, that sends no Vapours to the Head to intoxicate, though one drinks never so much, it being fermented, it is Wine: In the making of White-wine, the Must of White Grapes is left to Ferment all alone; but Claret must Ferment with the Faeces of the Grapes, whence it comes to pass, that the Read is loaded with more Tartar than the White, and remains longer in the Body after it is drank. Muscat and Spanish Wines, do not endure such a Fermentation, until good part of the Phlegm is evaporated, either by the heat of the Sun, or by Fire; and thence they become so glutinous, as they are almost like a Syrup. If the Effervescence of Wine proves too strong, by the additions of any extraneous thing, as Mercury Sublimate, Suet, or any Exotic Sulphur, or Re-imbition of its own Tartar; such a mighty fermentative Motion is called, Fretting of Wines, which if not appeased, the Crasis of the Wine is in danger of being perverted; and the Remedy is Racking they of, which precipitates the aforesaid Tartarous Faeces, or extraneous Bodies, or those strong Fretting often too much contracted and exalted by Carriage, are allayed by the Affusion of plenty of Milk, Isinglass, or Starch: So on the contrary too depauperated or flat Wines, from the depressed state of the Principles, are recovered by a little Fermenting Wine, working upon its Leeses, or by a well impregnated Tartar, strong Lee, or fermental Syrup, composed of generous Wine, Sugar, and some Aromaticks, as the Experienced Vintner thinks best: These Additaments, I say, bring on a fresh Fermentation, and excite the native Acid and Sulphur into a brisk and spirituous Effervescency. But having a little Philosophically digressed, to demonstrate by what Principles Wines and Spirits are made, exalted depressed and flatted, instead of telling the Virtues, and what Wine is most proper for each Constitution; (for Wine-drinkers can best inform themselves of that.) I shall only say White-wines is best before Meals, for after it will be apt to 'cause Oppilations and Stoppages. Claret nourisheth and warmeth, and is the best Stomach Wine, and is wholesomer with Meat, and for those that are Phlegmatic; but for Men apt to Feed, White is the best: Sacks and Muscadines, and such Cordial sweet Wines, do comfort a cold weak Stomach, and help Digestion. Red-Wine is used only to stop Fluxes and Lasks, for it breeds the Stone and ill Blood: Austere harsh Wine nourisheth little, is not good for emaciated lean Bodies: New Wines fwell and surfeit the Body. In a word, Wines are best for cold and moist Constitutions for People in Years, being prejudicial to Children and Youth, and to all Constitutions if taken immoderately for than a Relaxation of the Nerves, Tremors, Palsies, Gout, and other Maladies, which have their Origin from the Genus Nervosum, are the products of it: Also it is a Procatarctick of the Scurvy, exalting the Sulphur and Volatile Salts of the Blood, to febrile Ebullitions in some Bodies, and in others over Topping, depressing and fixing them, by the previlency of the innate Acid, preternaturally advanced, which begets Obstructions, etc. especially daily loading the Stomach with Sack, proves much sooner fatal than a longer and larger Use of French Wines. For Sack contains much Oil and little Spirit, and French Wines the contrary; hence our great Sack-drinkers are seldom long lived, for the warm Oil, continuing some time upon their Stomaches, the preternatural Heat doth by degrees burn and prey upon their Vitals, whereas the Spirits in French Wines do hastily pass of into the Blood, and a great part of them is soon evacuated by Urine; the burning force of the remainder, in a short space equally distributed through the body, and consequently is the lesle pernicious: The Truth of this Discourse, observing Practitioners in Physic can attest, meeting often with Patients who too often prove the same. In the Shops. As there are several sorts of simple Wines, so there are many Compound Wines, taking their Names either from some of the Ingredients, from the Disease they are appropriated to, or from their chief Operation and Virtues, and these many times are variously prescribed by the Physician, answerable to the Indications of the Disease, or else are kept as standing Nostrums and Arcana's in the Shops. Paracelsus called Wine, the Blood of the Earth; The Juice of the Prince of all Vegetables: The Sovereign Cordial, and dignified by others with the Title of Janus' Plant, and the great Lunaria of Raymundus Lullius, as 'tis supposed. Spirit of Wine is the greatest and most useful Preparations in the Shops, it is sweet, very hot and purgent, the Oil gives its Sweetness, and a Volatile Salt its hot Purgency. The famous Willis in his Pharmaceutice Rat. Cap-Diureticor. shows how he separated the Oil or Sulphurous parts by Distillation from Spirit of Wine, by the Admixtion of a strong Spirit of Vitriol; This than more over-proves a Sulphur or Oil in Wines; And the feculent Tartar proves the Acidum. And Sir I. F. saith the Sulphur, Acidum, and Volatile Salt, united in Spirit of Wine, are much of the nature of a dissolved Raisin; and by reason of its Raisinous Composition is agreeable to the Read part of the Blood, and is a familiar Specisick, to supply its defect, and excite its brisk Motion, whereby its cordial, refreshing, supplying new Spirits by its similitude of Texture. But every Chemical Laboratory, or true Shop of a good and expert Apothecary ought to be furnished with store of very subtle and more highly exalted Sp. Vini, called Alcohol Vini, which is nothing else but the above said Spirit, most pure and highly rectified and divested of all Phlegm. This is that most subtle and incorruptible Essence, by Chemical Authors, couched under so many lofty Titles, and strange mystical Names, as Burning Water, Heavenly Sulphur, Bezoartick Sulphur, Celestial Menstruum, the Philosopher's Key, the Volatile Balsam of the Catholic Liquor; an Etherial Body consisting of Fire and Water; the Quintessence of Wine, and Pyroenus, or burning Wine, by Dr. Bates: And these Names show it was a great Polychrestick, and much prized: Brandy, that is true, is a Spirit of Wine loaded with Phlegm, (as Spirit of Wine is now, by the best Chemical Operators drawn from Brandy) that doth rise first in the Distillation, carrying Phlegm good store with it. If it take Fire with a few Grains of Gunpowder in a Spoon, and consume even to the Flagration and Explosion of the Gunpowder, it comes near a Spirit of Wine, (which should do so, if well rectified) but the more moisture is left when your flame goes out, the more Weak and Phlegmatic is your Brandy. It is the best Succedaneum to Sp. of Wine, and too often is used in its stead, by the Pharmacal Artist; it is the best of all the hot Waters, that are vulgarly sold in the Shops, if moderately taken, and is like a Sword or Dagger, often fatal in the hands of a Fool, and all intemperate Men; for it ought (as also all other Strong-Waters and Spirits) to be used by the most Sober and Understanding Men, with great Caution and Circumspection; every Month produces sad and fatal Instances of its daggering force, suffocating some, as suddenly as a Halter, and consuming others in scorching feverish Flames, whilst others are Calcining (as it were) by degrees to Ashes; The natural Tone of the Stomach being by a frequent Use of it depraved and perverted, and the Liver and Viscera so parboiled, that no other strong Liquor, or rich Cordial, whatsoever can warm the Stomach and Spirits of such Men: And of such mortiferous and deplorable Effects, occasioned by this excellent, yet dangerous Liquor; I could produce several Observations, and some within Memory, but respects to the Persons, and their Friends, doth stop my Pen; yet I hope this Hint will not altogether be disregarded by some, nor to the Public. Tartar (another product of Wine) is found sticking to Casks, like a very hard Stone, sometimes white and sometimes read as the Wine is it comes from, and is the Leeses of Wine indurated, as the Leeses is but a liquesied Tartar: When Must is newly drawn from the Grape it is a true Chaos, in the Fermentation, the aqueous, earthy, and other adventitious Impurities and saline parts of it are precipitated into Tartar, which is an essential, permanent and incorruptible Salt in its self, being of very rare and remarkable Virtues and Uses, arising from its Acid Salt and Sulphur, or Oil, which it possesses abundantly: The whitest Tartar is the best, the read being serviceable to Goldsmiths, Dyers, etc. The Liquid Leeses of Wine are calcined to Ashes, and called also Cineres Clavellati, in English graveled Ashes. Crystals, or Crem of Tartar, (aught to be made from the best white Tartar, compacted, crystalline, and weighty, which comes from Germany) is Tartar purified by Decoction, Filtration and Evaporation, and than coagulated in form of Crystals. But our common Cream of Tartar is adulterated and sophisticated, by a false crew of Chemical Distillers, with Allom, which is quite contrary in its Virtues to it; Of this you may see more in Riverius, prax. Med. lib. 11. cap. 3. Therefore I do always use the best Crude Tartar, except I know the Shop I prescribe to, do prepare the Crem faithfully, or buy it at the Apothecary's Laboratory, truly prepared (unless we'll suspect the Public Faith) where they may have it at about 3 s. the pound, but the Druggist's (who generally buy them of those accursed and cheating Pseudo-Chymists, and counterfeiting Distillers) cell them at 16 d. the pound and under; and the Crude Tartar for 6 d.: so it appears, the Allom which shoots all into Crystals, yields the ill gotten Game, to that wicked distilling Tribe. Salt of Tartar, and of other Preparations made from this Polychrestick Vegetable the Vine, I may have occasion to speak of hereafter; but the Spirit of Wine Tartarised is the Alcohol acuated, with some Portion of its own Salt of Tartar, by Digestion and distillation, (not by a bore Infusion or Dissolution, as some ignorant Apoth. do think) and is above all others the most excellent Menstruum for the Extraction of Tinctures, out of Animals, Vegetables, and Minerals, and to prepare Extracts, whether from Catharticks or Alteratives. But a little to digress: The Separation of the Spirits and parts of Wine in our Bodies, much resemble Distillation: The Volatile parts by the heat of the Viscera, and Agitation of the Spirits, ascend to the Brain and Heart, which invigorates and accelerates their Motion, elixirating the Animal Spirits, even to a certain Gaiety and Floridness of Mind, which helps us to many fresh, nimble and excellent Thoughts, and consequently we do vent many eloquent and ingenious, and sententious Expressions, as being in the height of Mirth and Joy. But though the Functions and Faculties of the Body and Soul, are exhilarated by Wine (and other Liquors) moderately taken; so on the contrary if immoderately followed, the Tartarous parts of the Wine, after the Ascension of the Volatile, do fix Humours about the Hypochondriack Regions, and beget Melancholy, as some to pass away their Melancholy Dumps, have been debauched with Wine and other Liquors, but afterwards it evidently appears to others, as well as themselves to be augmented: But in those who excessively drink Wine to a high degree, in a short space of time, that play the Goodfellow, as they call it, for a Night; the largest Portion of the Spirituous Particles abundantly ascend and circulate in the small Cavities of the Brain, with so great Celerity, that all the Animal Functions are confounded; than Objects appear double, and of various Colours and the Walls of the Room seem to look after another Situation and Form. And I think this is that called Drunkenness; and than 'tis time to fall a sleep, though such long and profound sleeps follow not upon drinking of Wine, as they do of Ale and other Liquors, because the Spirit of such Liquors (is not so Volatile, but) carries a more viscous Phlegm into the Brain, requiring a longer time to pass through the Pores, and in the disingaging itself. But in a word, I conceive Brandy, especially the ordinary, and other Phlegmatic Spirits, will do a great deal more hurt, and inflame more than duly rectified Spirit of Wine; because our Vitals greedily embracing the noble Spirit in the Brandy, draws into its curious Recesses upon the Wings thereof: Foulness and Lavid Phlegm, wherewith Brandy aboundeth, which grates afterwards and disturbs the Vitals. Wheat. Ex. 9 23. & 29. 2. Num. 18. 12. Deut. 8. 8. & 32. 14. Jud. 6. 11. 2 Sam. 17. 28. Chr. 27. 5. Ezr. 6. 9 Job 31. 40. Ps. 81. 16. Is. 28. 25. Jer. 31. 12. Joel 2. 24. Mat. 3. 12. Luk. 22. 31. Act. 27. 38. 1 Cor. 15. 37. Rev. 6. 6. N. K. D. P. Triticum. Firumentum. Jun. & Tr. Vulg. Triticum: 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Wheat is propagated for the Sustenance of Man in most inhabited places of the World, and doth differ in its growth, form, and names, according to different soils and climbs: Indian Wheat is called Maiz: Buck, or French Wheat, manured in these Northern-parts, and here in the Morelands', is O●ymum Cereale sive Tragopyrum. The Dutch Names are Bock-weydt, and Buckenweydt, double Eared Wheat is Triticum Multiplex: Poland Wheat is Triticum Polonicum: Wheat-Barly, or bore Barley is Triticospeltum. But our English Husbandmen do (in the several Countries) propagate several sorts, as White-wheat, as well the Spike, as the Grain is white, called Triticum spicâ muticâ album siligo. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 gr●●. Red-Wheat, called Kentish Wheat in some places, is spica mutica Rubrum, of which Mr. Ray makes three sorts; Gray-Wheat, Duck-bill, or Gray-pollard, is the Triticum aristis Circumvallatum glumis hirsutis, with other sorts, best known to the Husbandman. The best Wheat is reckoned to grow in the Vales of Eveshain and White-horse; but I think there is as good in some places in other Counties, as Rive●wheat, Flaxen-wheat, Bearded-wheat, which suffereth not by Mildew, because the Beard thereof is a defence to preserve it from Deu●. Many of the several names of Wheat, may probable be the same sorts, as Countries differ in Names. As to the Sowing of this Grain, and differences of their Culture, I shall leave to the expert Husbandman. Virtues and Uses. I need not spend time to set out the Uses and Virtues of this common and useful Vegetable, which is the wholsomest Grain in Europe, and the most general Grain used here in England for Bread, the Staff of Man's Life; although it be not unfit for the most of the Uses the other Grains are fit for. Astrological Practitioners differ about it, some give it to Venus, others with more Reason to the Sun. It is hot in the 1ᵒ. deg. not manifestly drying nor moistening, saith Galen; it tastes sweet and slimy, and when brought into Meal its Principles are unalter'd: But Leaven is Salt and Sower, by the addition of Salt and long keeping, and by the Fermentation of the Oil and Acid, (the Principles in Meal of Barley as well as Wheat) the sliminess, which is a more fixed Oil, is attenuated, the Oil rarefied, and the Acid set at liberty, and so are dissolved in the Mashing Vate, or huff and swell the Dough in the making of Bread; for contraries work one with another, and 'cause a heat, which makes the mixture swell and ferment, when put into fresh Dough, or in Liquor, (stopped close up in a Barrel before Fermentation ceases (or too new in Bottles) it will burst the Vessel in pieces, and make a way out. Hence it appears, how Bread being fermented and baked, becomes the chiefest of Nourishment, and virtuous and wholesome; but Grain or the Flower thereof eaten, crude and raw, procures Diseases; for Fermentation is but, as it were, Nature's violent Decoction, in order to Separation, and ripening things for the use and benefit of us weak unleavened mutable Mortals, who shall never be perfect nor ripe in this Life. A little Leaven leaveneth the whole Lump, but Tares and Darnel choke and vitiate the best and most perfect Grain. Wheat-flower draweth (mixed with a little Honey) and healeth any Bile or swelling: The Oil pressed from Wheat, between two hot Iron Plates, kills Tetters and Ringworms, and beautifies the Skin; the Flower in Small-beer, is good to stop overflowings of the Blood, and other Hemorrhages and Fluxes. Leaven draws greatly. Bran, being the outward Coat or Skin, of this most useful Grain, is more cooling and drying, good in Decoctions, Baths and Pultisies, in hot Swell, Ruptures, swollen Breasts, and steeped in Vinegar, excellent to rub of Morphew, Scurf, and in the Leprosy; a little thereof boiled in our ordinary Beer, maketh it mantle or flower in the Cup, when it is poured out, smiles at you, as 'tis vulgarly termed: And the best Beer to keep (so called from the French word Boire, and hath been celebrated by the name of La bonne Biere d'Angleterre, in France, Belgium, Germany;) being that we call March and October Beer) was formerly brewed with a 4th part of Wheat added to the Malt, which shows what a rich Spirit this most nourishing Grain is endowed with, especially when so much remains in the courser part of it, Bran. Poland is said to have so abounded with Wheat, that the Land, by one ploughing bears three Years together, in the Province of Podolia, the Countryman shaking out a little of the Corn as he Reaps it upon the Earth, at the end of the first and second Years: Certainly it was very plentiful in England also, A. D. 1287. when it was sold at sixteen pence and twelve pence the Quarter, as Stow tells us. Starch is made of musty and unwholesome Wheat. Triticum Multiplex, or double-eared Wheat, hath been manured here at Rowley-Regis in this County; and the French or Buck Wheat, (not that it is like Wheat in the growth or Grain, but rather called so, because it serveth the meaner sort of People to make Bread, in those parts where it is sown, as it is in the barren Land of this County, being sown alone, or with Barley) is sweetish as Sugar, and vended in the Markets, at about eighteen pence a Measure; they make Cakes of it in these parts, as they do Oat-cakes, and call it Crumpit; or if they mix it with Barley and Rye, they can the better make Loaves of it to Bake. In Germany and Italy the ordinary People feed in divers places only upon this, and yet are strong and hardy, though it yields not so much Nourishment as Wheat, Rye, or Barley, but it digests easily, and fattens quickly, especially and Poultry, which will suffocate with their own Fat, if not speedily killed. In the Shops. Emplastrum e Crusiâ Panis; or the Plaster of the Crust of Bread. It strengthens the Brain in Head Plasters, stops Vomitings, Loosenesses, and excellent in Ruptures, and any case that requires Binding. Every Petticoat Docteress can make a Pultiss of White-bread Crumbs, Mallows and Milk boiled, to give ease and mollify any painful Swelling. Also most know how to boil the Flower of Wheat, tied hard up in a Linen Cloth in Water, than to make Paps or Stirpudding with that Flower, to stop Loosenesses, spitting of Blood, and other Fluxes, if so ordered; binds strongly. And I advice the Midwives and good Women to Bake, (or set it in a warm Oven after the Batch is drawn) the Flower in a Stean-pot, before they mix it with Milk for Infants, for the crude, slimy, moist quality of the raw Flower, gives Gripes greatly to Children, and is not wholesome for them. Bran is good in Clysters in erosions and gripe of the Bowels: Thus this most Nutritious Vegetable, heals, as well as nourisheth us, for God in the Work of Creation, did in a manner open and explicate Himself as in a Book, in which he hath left his Picture drawn in most beautiful and visible Characters, as if God had lodged and placed Himself amongst the Being's or Created Substances, that▪ they may the better partake of his Goodness. Willow. Leu. 23. 40. Job 40. 22. Ps. 137. 2. Is. 15. 7. & 44. 4. Ezek. 17. 5. N. K. D. P. Salix. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Salix a Salio, quod celeriter saliat. i e. Velociter crescat. This is one of the Vimineous Family belonging to the Aquatical Class of Vegetables, as Sally, Osier, Withy; These are divided and reckoned by about half a Score different Names, as The common White Willow is Salix Vulgaris; The Read Willow is Vulgaris Rubens; Sallow, is Salix Latifolia; Dwarf Willow is Salix Pumila Angustifolia; The Osier is Salix Folio Longissimo; Sweet Willow is Salix Odorata, having a fragrant Smell; Bay-leaved Willow is Salix Folio Laureo, sive Aemydalino, and Smells like Laurel. Sweet Willow comes near to Sweet Gaul, or Dutch Myrtle: These Aquatic Trees, are well known to the Country Planter and Botanists, delighting in moist places, and by Watercourses, as the Prophet Isa. hath it. The Withy is a large Tree, growing best on high Banks, because the Roots are extended deeper than either Sally or Willows: Sallies grow the faster, if planted within the reach of the Water: Osiers are smaller, shorter lived, require constant moisture. These Trees are raised by the Poles, Branches and Twigs, thrust down and set in the Ground, as Poplar is. Mr. Ray saith, That Misletoe, will grow on Willow, Nut, Elm, Lyme-Tree, and others▪ besides those, 'tis commonly found on, as the Crab, Apple, Hawthorne, and sometimes on Oak; it may be tried▪ (as the very Ingenious and Worthy Person. Mr. George Pla●ston informed me, at Trentham). whilst I was writing on this Subject, the Willow, by rubbing well the Bark of a Bough, with a course Cloth, or Haircloth, than bruising and rubbing the Berries of Misletoe on the place; for so a Neighbour of his in Shrop shire, hath often made it to grow: It may do well to be tried on Oak, which renders Misletoe so famous and virtuous. Virtues and Uses. If I forget not, the Astrologers place it under the Moon, who is cold and moist, but the Leaves Flowers, Juice, Bark and Catkins, are reckoned cold and dry in the 2ᵒ. and very Astringent, they are all rough and bitterish in Taste, very seldom used in Medicines, but old Herbals say it stops spitting of Blood, and other Fluxes. The green Boughs may with great benefit be brought into the Chambers of Feverish and Aguish Patients, whereby the hot Air is fanned, and they cooled thereby. Pliny saith, that certain Matrons among the Athenians, desirous to live chaste, did take the Salix Marina, Leaves, or Vitex, sive Agnus Castus, or the Chaste-Tree, to Bed with them. Willow comes near it in that Property, and hence that Custom arose, that He which is deprived of his Love must wear a Willow-Garland, which Custom still continues in some places; though now 'tis adorned with variety of Flowers and Ribbons about the Garland, perhaps of a quite contrary Nature to the Chaste-Tree or Willow; the Ends and Uses of which were honest and well-designed: But such is the depravedness of our Natures, that we forsake good Customs, and strike in with others, (more beautiful to the Eye) though more pernicious and opposite to the first designed Ends. Not that I would be thought to magnify this Terraqueous Plant, as a certain and infallible Rod, to whip away all unchaste and wanton Inclinations, by wasting▪ depraving, or extinguishing the primordial seminal Substance, or (to speak like a Paracelsian) the Microcosmical Archaeus; but hereby you may know I do (though our Shops afford no Preparations of it) look upon the Decoction or Infusion of Willow-leaves, as also the Troches of Agnus Cast●s, as they are set down by the Honourable College of Physicians in their London Dispensatory, to be excellent in the Gondrrh●a simplex vel v●rulens, and other Fluxes seasonably used, and good Companions for such as resolve on a single Life: Dose of the Troches may be from one Scruple to two, daily, in Conserve of Roses, drinking after it a draught of the Infusion or Decoction of Willow-leaves in small Ale. These Aquatic Trees yield a clean and white Wood, fit for many Uses, like unto Poplar; also the Gardiner's have Poles, Binder's, &c. from them: They may be Set in February, and so on till they Bud. The Osier is much used, and greatly serviceable to Basket-makers, Fishermen, and others. No Tree more profitable than some of the Aquaticks, (according to the nature of the place) being planted on the margin of Rivers, borders of Meadows, and wet Lands, yielding a considerable Head, and and ready for to be cropped in a few Years for Fuel, and the Wood makes good Char-Coal: Mr. Evelin doth tell us that a Gentleman Topped not lesle than Two Thousand yearly, all of his own Planting. To conclude, the Ancient Britain's had these flexible Trees in great Estimation, for they made made▪ slight Boats of them, whereof thus the Poet: Primum cana Salix, madefacto vimine Parvam Texitur in puppim, etc. Thus rendered to my hand; The moistened Osier of the hoary Willow Is woven first into a little Boat, Than clothed in Bullocks Hides, upon the Billow Of a proud River, lightly doth it float. And how much smallest Twigs of it are in Request with our Fisher men, belonging to our Inland Rivers, to make their Willns and Pocheons; I need not stand to demonstrate, only I observe the weakest Twig as well as the stronger Angling-Rod, makes good the old Phrase, Fallere▪ piscem vimine. Worm Wood Deut. 29. 18. Ps. 5. 4. Jer. 9 15▪ & 23. 15. Lam. 3. 15. Am. 5. 7. Rev. 8. 11. N. K D. P. Absinthium. Gr. & Lat. There is a Confusion in Ancient Herbals, about Wormwood, Southernwood, Lavender, etc. but I shall only speak to the Three most common sorts. Common Wormwood, is called Absinthium common: Roman Wormwood, is called Absinthium Romanum: Sea Wormwood, is called Seriphium, also Santonicum by some, which naturally grows on the Sea coasts; These are propagated by Seed, Stems, and Slips, in many Physic Gardens, and others. Santonicum seu Sementina, is Holy Wormwood, an Exotic Plant, which yields the Wormseed in the Shops: Schroder saith 'tis brought from Alexandria, and some Wormseed is gathered from the Sea Wormwood also; and why not the Seeds of our own Wormwood the best for our Childrens Bodies, which may be gathered in August: The best time for the Ale-sellers to gather the Herd to dry, for to make Wormwood-drink and Pearl in the ensuing Winter. Virtues and Uses. All the Astrological Artists have listed Wormwood under the Valiant Mars, to whom a Pint of Pearl would be welcome (if Encamped) in Winter. It is said to be hot in the 2ᵒ. and dry in the 3o. deg. Our ancient Phytologists, and most of our modern little Herbarists, have, with the bore beholding the outward Elegancies of Plants, given us a confused heap of Internal Properties and pretended Virtues of them, before they had distinguished and laid down their Essential Principles, and constituent Parts, by an Investigation of them, built on Experiment and the common Notions of Sense, which ●re prolific, but Fancy and Imagination are barren: Thus abundance of Faculties and Virtues, (omitting the hurtful Properties) have been attributed in our common Herbals unto this Plant, and most other common Herbs, yea many more than are true, for such Medicinal Faculties, as they are cried up to have and exert, are not the genuine Effects, nor Rational Productions of the Essential Principles of the Extolled Plant. And now drawing near to a Conclusion of this Herbal, I desire any Reader, who expected more Virtues, as is usual to be ascribed to each Plant, to take the Substance of the above said lines, for the reason their Expectations are not answered; omitting therefore the false crowd of Virtues commonly given to Wormwood; I shall only give you those that are rationally founded on its Principles, and the Testimony of our Senses and Experience, as I have endeavoured all along in this Work. Ever since I tasted the Roots of wormwood, according to Dr. Grew, I found a Transition and descent of the Heat, from the tip of my Tongue to the Throat, Gullet, and seemingly to the Stomach itself, without swallowing any Juice, and this done several times; they are not bitter, but hot and sweet, (as those Plants are which have bitter Stalks and Leaves, (i e. the Leaves of all sweet Roots are bitter) and some what of an odorous Balsamic Gust, for that exact Person saith there is a Turpentine in them. Now these Tastes of it discover in it an Acid Salt, smoothed by a light proportion of Sulphur. And so its Virtues are to provoke Urine, discuss Wind, and to fortify the Stomach; it justly deserving (as I have often of late experienced it) to be ranked with the most excellent Stomachicks▪ (as the said Doctor opined) offended not the Head and Eyes, as the Leaves and Wormwood-drink do. By the bitter and acrid Taste of the Leaves, (arising from a Sulphur, well impregnated with an Alkaline Salt, shackled with Earth) it cleanseth and strengtheneth both the Retentive and Expulsive Faculty of the Stomach▪ (having an Astringenoy in i●▪ as all strong bitters have, saith the Doctor) resisting Surfeiting and Putrefaction▪ and assisting D●g●●●ion, opening Obstructions, and provoking Urine▪ therefore so good in Dropsies, Jaundice, Virgi●● Dis●as●▪ Vomitings, Colic, cleansing the ●●ins and Bla●der, kills Worms, and is good in long Tertia●s, by rectifying the Acidities in the Choleric▪ Blood, saith 〈◊〉 ●. ●. But it offends the Head and Eyes, pro●●●●g Headache, Drowsiness, not to be used in Cephalick Distempers; wherefore, as also because of the nauseous Taste and strong Hogo, which cannot be endured by some Persons in their Nose and ; I am want to use the Roman wood, and the Roots (as I told you above) of the common sort, being more pleasant, lesle earthy and crude in Infusions, Decoctions, and Conserve, bitter Draughts, etc. Outwardly, Wormwood-leaves discuss Tumours and Wind, particularly in the squinsy and swelling of the Throat and Almonds: It is good by beating the Leaves up to a Pultiss, with Hogs-grease, and so applied warm. Riverius in his Cap. de dolore ventriculi & de inapetentia, as also in his Observations, made his bitter Draughts only with Wormwood, Centaury and Agrimony, (from whom, no doubt, our common bitter Draughts had their rise) which deserves equal Praise and Commendation, with the now more compounded bitter Draughts, that Ladies and Practitioners do abound with: And if my good Word for Riverius' Drink doth dissatisfy any, that fond over dotes on their refined and exalted Panacea, or more compounded Draughts, or is matter of Derision to those, who please their Fancies in the large Prescription of a jumbled. Nostrum, partaking more of Art than Goodness; it shall not trouble me. Not that I hereby explode all Compositions, as fallacious and unnecessary to use, but would insinuate that plain and lesle compounded Medicaments, have of old, and still will prove, singularly good in the 〈◊〉 of divers Maladies; and therefore those cast by 〈◊〉 Lot, in the midst of a poor Rural Practice, may (leaving others to their fanciful Inventions) help their poor Patients in most Diseases, more suddenly, safely, and lesle costly, which will make ●● pleasant, In the Shops. The dry Herb. 2ly, The simple Water. 3ly, The Syrup of Wormwood simple. 4ly, The Compound Syrup. 5ly, The Water and Spirit the lesle Compound. 6ly, The Water and Spirit the greater Composition. 7ly, The Conserve of the Leaves, both of common Wormwood, and Roman. 8ly, The Inspissated Juice, or the Extract. 9ly, The fixed Lixivial Salt. 10ly, Troches of Wormwood. 11. The Oil of Wormwood, by Infusion and Decoction. 12. The Chemical Oil. 13. Wormseed. 14. The Ashes, of which see Willis in Cap. de Anasarca. 15. Vinum Absinthites, or Wormwood Wine, by Infusion in White-wine, or Rhenish. The Oil of Wormwood by Decoction, Oil of Quinces, and Oil of Mastic, are reckoned by Authors the three Stomach Oils, for outward Use, to strengthen the Stomach in Vomitings, etc. Two or three drops of the Chemical Oil, is convenient in a Dose of Stomach Pills, in crapulent Cases, and after a drunken Debauch, to prevent Surfeiting, by cleansing the Stomach of filth and Ill Humours. Salt of Wormwood; a thing in general Vogue and Use, as being more Excellent in all the aforesaid Cases, that the Wormwood's are appropriated to, for 'tis more digestive, aperient, and diveretick; and is used much in Intermitting Fevours and Agues. As for the decision of that point, which some have long differed in Judgement about Sc. Whether there is any Difference or not, between the several Lixivial Salts of Plants. The great Vegetable Anatomist D. G. affirms there is, though many Learned Men have thought otherwise, for proof whereof take his own Words, in Lect. 4ᵒ. Cap. 2. Either there is a difference, or not; if not, it should be proved; and if there is, it should than be justly stated, what that difference is, for the doing of which I chose this Method. I took an equal quantity of the whitest and purest Salts of divers Plants, all made by an equal degree of Calcination; and dissolved them all severally in an equal quantity of Water: And pouring likewise an equal quantity, as about ten or twelve drops of each into a Spoon, I tasted them severally; whereby it was evident, that they were not all of one Taste, but of very different ones, both as to strength and kind; and therefore different in nature also. The Salts I made trial of were those of Sorrel, Anise, Wormwood, Mallow, Ash, Tartar, and others: And upon half a dram of each I poured ℥ ijss of Water. The Solutions are here present to be tasted; by which the differences will easily be observed, and particularly that of the Salt of Wormwood, or Scurvygrass, is almost as strong again as the Salt of Anise, or Sorrel: And that the Salt of Ash is above twice as strong, and that of Tartar above thrice as strong as that of Sorrel, and almost thrice as strong as that of Wormwood or Sourvy-grass. So that He, who shall give half a Scruple, suppose of Salt of Tartar, instead of half a Scruple of Salt of Wormwood, or other like Salt, he may as as well give a Scruple of Rosin of Jalap, for a Scruple of the Powder, or almost three drams of Rhubarb, or other like Purge instead of one. And the like is to be said of other Lixivial Salts in their degrees. Moreover He demonstrates a facile Method of producing an Essential Salt, (or Vegetable Nitre of Plants) as also a Marin● Salt, out of the Lixivial Salt of a Plant, being different Productions of the same. Wormwood-Beer, and Drink boiled with Broom, Centaury, Sage, Linge, and other Plants, instead of Hops; I have often recommended in the preceding Tract: But to answer the great Objection, That these Herbs will make it too bitter; you must learn to know the Quality of the Plant, or Plants you use, as to Taste and Virtues; for instance, one handful of Wormwood goes farther than three or four of other Herbs, especially in August or September, when 'tis fully ripe and seeded; for therein consists the most active Oil, Principles and Virtues of it. Now to abate the sweetness of the Malt, being the Design; take such a small quantity, as will only mitigate that, and not let the bitterness prevail, and so by often trial you may adjust some certain handfuls or weight to be your standing Rule in Brewing, with any Herbs; but these things, especially in some great Towns, where there are various sorts of Vegetable Alice, are well known, and not so much as thought on by our Ale-dames in others: It is to no purpose for me to direct in what Constitutions and Habits of Body, the several potable Liquors that now are, and may be Brewed, are proper and salutiserous; guessing if I should, that few Men, nay nor Women neither, would take their Measures and Customs in Drinking, from what I could say: for the general part of Mankind, not only in these Northern, but also in other parts of the World, are such Slaves to their Palates and Pots, that instead of using these Liquors, which God hath liberally given us for the Health and Nourishment of our crazy Bodies, we make them the Causes of most Distempers and Diseases: And that by a modish and sociable manner of Drinking, too much known and followed, and soon learned in these days. For he transacts no weighty Affair throughly, nor is regarded, but despised by Men, that cannot, nor will not be subject to the Drinking Humours, especially of the great ones: Insomuch 'tis one of the most difficult things in this World, for a Man to drive a Trade, and reap a Livelihood, especially by a popular Employment, and keep a safe Conscience withal. Nor must we expect, that these Plants contained in the Sacred Word of God, will be any Blessings unto us, whether Patient or Physician, if we do not follow the Holy Rules, and Practice according to the Word, that hath prescribed them: To which Eternal Word alone, which did perfect All things by once Speaking, be dedicated all Honour and Contemplation, and given all practical Obedience, sincere and pure Devotion, for ever and ever. Amen. FINIS. An Alphabetical TABLE, Showing what Plants, (besides those mentioned in the Sacred BIBLE) as also some of the Diseases, Medicines, and other Matters that are contained and chief discoursed of in this Book. A. A Bele-tree: read under Poplar. Advice to patients, r. Lilies. After birth, r. Juniper, Calamint, Afterpains', r. Bay-tree. Akerns, r. Oak. Ale, r. Barley. Almond Caudle, r. Cinnamon. Antictericum Gesneri, r. Nettles. Archangel, r. Nettles. Ark, r Gophir Wood Aspe-tree, r. Poplar. Asthma, r. Onions, Saffron. B. Balsam of Angelica, r. Sweet-Cane. Balaustius, read under Pomegranate. Barberries, r. Thornes. Bast-ropes, r. Teyl-tree. Beer, r. Barley. B●rch, r. Mallows. Birch-wine, r. Sycomore-tree. Bitter-Apple, r. Gourds. Biting of Mad dogs, r. Flags. Blood stop, r. Ash, Nettles. Blackberry-wine, r. Bramble. Bran, r. Wheat. Brandy, r. Vine. Breath short, r. Onion. Broom, r. Pine, Wormwood. Bruises, r. Rue. Burns, r. Thorne-Apples, Onions. Buckthorne, r. Thornes. Bowls Secret, r. Hemlock. C. Calamint, r. under Mint. Candle-rush, r. Rush. Camels-hair, r. Rush. Carthamus, r. Saffron. Chincough, r. Garlick. Chives, r. Leeks. Colic, r. Oak, Rue, Bay. Christ-thorne, r. Thornes. Chermes, r. Oak. Cicutaria vulgar, r. Hemlock. Cider, r. Apples. Cicers, r. Pulse. Coconuts, r. Nuts. Colds in Infants, r. Nuts. Coloquintida, r. Gourds. Consumption, r. Tar-pills, Mint. Cough, r. Onions. Conjunction of Plants, r. Thornes, Ash. Cooked Dish, r. Mallows. Cork-Oak, r. Oak. Convulsions, r. Rue, Teyl-Tree. Corans, r. Raisins. Crem of Tartar, r. Vine. Cosmetick ball. r. Almond. Charity in Drs. r. Briar. Celsus' Council, r. Hyssop. D. Damask Powder, r. Flags. Date, r. under Palms. Dead Child, r. Calamint. Deaths, r. Mandrakes. Ducks-meat, r. Lentils. Drunkenness, r. Wine. E. Earth-Nuts, read under Nuts. Elaterium, r. Cucumbers. Electuary in Coughs and in Consumption, r. Anise. — in Palsy, r. Mustard. Embalming, r. Cedar. Extract Coloquint. r. Gourds. Ever-greens, r. Myrtle. Elm large, r. Elm. Eyes sore, r. Hemlock. F. Fasters, r. Bulrush. Fermentation, r. Wheat, Barley and Wine. Fevers, read Rue. Filbeard, r. Hasel-tree. Fistick Nuts, r. Nuts. Fodder, r. Poplar, Elm, French-Mallows, r. Mallows. French-Wheat, r. Wheat. G. Gauls, r. under Oak. Gonorrhoea, r. Willow. Gout, r. Garlic, Hemlock. Goats-Rue, r. Rue. Gratiola, r. Hyssop. 〈◊〉- boards, r. Elm. Gum Tragacant. r. thorns. Gum Arabic, r. Thornes. H. H●●r-falling, read under Teyl tree. Hair Powder, r. Flags. Heath, r. Pine. Hermodactils, r. Saffron. Hemorrhages, r. Ash, N●ttles, Wheat. Hemorrhoids, r. Leeks. Hedge-Mustard, r. Mustard. Hedge-Hysop, r. Hyssop. Hips. r. Briar. Histerical, r. Teyl-tree. Hops, r. Barley, Pine. Hoarseness, r. Hedge-Mustard. Hydrocele, r. Beans. I. Jaundice, r. under Nettles. Jesuits-Bark, r. Thistles. Indian Nut, r. Nuts. Ink, r. pomegranate. L. Lamp-black, r. Pine. Laurel, r. Bay-tree. Lily of the Valley, r. Lilies. Lin●ri●, r. Flax. Linen-cloth, r. Flax. M. Mayhern's Receipt, read under Rue Thistle. Mace, r. Nuts. Mad-dogs, r Nettles, Flags. Dredge-Malt, r. Beans. Malaga-Raisins, r. Raisins. Marsh-Mallows, r. Mallows. Mast, r. Oak. Man's Hieroglyfick, read Palm. Mat-reed, r. Reeds. Mithridates' King, r. Rue. Midwives, r. Lilies. Misletoe, r. Oak, Willow. Moses basket, r. Reeds. Mouth-water, r. Teyl-tree, Briar. Mum, r. Fir. Mushrooms, r. Poplar. Musk-Melons, r. Melons. Mustard-Ale, r. Mustard. Melancholy, r. Wine. N. Nettlepottage, r. Nettles. Nervous Cases, r. Teyl-tree, Rue, and Calamus. O. Ol. Lign. Heraclei, read under Hasel, Box. Ol. Paraliticum, r. Mustard. Oil how made, r. Oyl-tree, Olives. Ointment of Thorne-Apples, r. Apples. Ornus, r. Ash. Orris, r. Flags. P. Mouth, read pomegranate. Paper-Reeds, r. Reeds. Paper, made, r. Flax. Parchment, r. Reeds. Palsies, r. Spicknard, Mustard, etc. Pill. a nostrum, r. Ash. Piles, r. Garlick. Plaster, in Fevours, read Poplar. Polypody, r. Oak. Powder for Hair, r. Flags. Powder in the Stones, r. Thistles. Powder for Uuulla, read Pomegranates. Precious Stones, r. Saffron. Priapism, r. Lentils, Hemlock. Piracantha, r. Thornes. Pilex duobus, r. Gourds. Ptisan. r. Barley. R. Rachel▪ r under Mandrake's Rasp-Berry-Wine, read Brambles. Ramsons, r. Garlick. Reasons, not bearing fruit, r. pomegranate. Ricket-wood, r. Ash. Rickets, r. Raisins. Rye bread, r. Rye. Ring worms, r. Poplar. Ropes, r. Rushes. Roses to gather, r. Roses. Rouncival Pease, r. Pulse. S. Sack, read under Vine. Sallad-Oyl, r. Olive. Scarlet Oak, r. Oak. Scaenanth, r. Rush. Scurvy, r. Pomgrantes, Fir, Cucumbers, Sesamum, r. Pulse. Silkworms, r. Mulberries. Silk-trade, id. Salt of Wormwood, r. Wormwood. Simple Medicines, r. wormwood, Briar. Sciatica, r. Elm. Sloe-bush, r. Thornes. Smells, r. Roses. Smallpox, r. Saffron Sorbus Pyriformis, r. Ash. Spirit of Pease, r. Pulse. — of Poppies, r. Pulse. — of Wine, r. Vine. Squills, r. Onions. Spurg-La●ril, r. Bay tree. Sugar, r. Sweet Cane. Sugar candy, r. Reeds. Stone, r. mallows, almonds. Sweet-Briar, r. Briars. Sweet Gaul, r. Myrtle. Syrup of Garlic, r. Onions, and Garlic. Sach●rum dealt. r. Mallows. Syrup of Buckthorne, r. Thornes. T. Tar-made, r. under Pine. Tar-pills, r. Pine. Tartar, r. Vine. Taste, of Medicines, read Raisins. Teeth lose, r. pomegranate. Thorne-Apples, r. Apples. Throat sore, r. Anise. Treacle Mustard, r. Mustard. Trees setting, r. Oak, etc. Troch, Alhandle, r. gourds V Vinegar, r. Raises. Vesicatories, r. Rye. W. Walnuts, r. Hasel. Water-lillies, r. Lilies. Warts, r. Poplar. Wine of Raisins, r. Raisins. women's hard Breasts, r. Mint. Worms, r. Rue, Garlick, Wormwood, raisins, etc. Wormwood-beer, read Wormwood. Writing-books, r. Reeds. With many others, which the Reader may add with his Pen; and is desired to mend all Faults of the Press and Pen, the Author being very far distant. Books newly Printed for T. Salusbury, at the King's-Arms next St. Dunstan's Church in Fleetstreet. 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